Getting Ready to Recover at Home After Surgery: A Checklist for the Bitterroot Valley
A smoother recovery starts before surgery
Whether it is a knee replacement, a hernia repair or an outpatient procedure, most people spend the days after surgery recovering at home. In the Bitterroot Valley, home might be a long drive from town, and the last thing you want is a trip to the store the day you are discharged.
A little planning in the week before surgery makes a big difference. Here is a practical checklist, and how Healthcare Providers Inc. in Hamilton can help.
Step 1: Get the list from your surgeon
Your surgical team knows exactly what your procedure requires. Ask for:
Written discharge instructions, ahead of time if possible
A list of prescriptions you will go home with
Over the counter medicines they want you to use or avoid
Supplies for your incision or dressing changes
Any brace, sling, compression garment or support you will need
Instructions on when to stop or restart your regular medicines
Bring the list to the pharmacy and we will help you gather what is on it.
Step 2: Line up your prescriptions
If your doctor sends prescriptions to Healthcare Providers Inc. before your procedure, they can be ready when you need them. A family member can pick them up, or we can deliver to Hamilton, Darby, Corvallis and Victor so you can go straight home.
When you get a new prescription, it helps to know:
What it is for and how long to take it
How often to take it and whether to take it with food
Common side effects and which ones mean you should call your doctor
Whether it is safe with your other medicines and supplements
What to do if you miss a dose
We are happy to go over all of that at the counter or by phone.
Step 3: Stock the basics
Common items for home recovery include:
Pain relievers your surgeon approves. Some people are told to alternate an over the counter option with a prescription, while others are told to avoid certain products. Follow your surgeon's plan.
A stool softener. Prescription pain medicines, anesthesia and less movement can all cause constipation.
Wound care supplies. Gauze, non stick pads, tape and the specific dressings your instructions call for.
Cold packs. Reusable gel packs or wraps for swelling, if your surgeon recommends them.
A thermometer. To check for fever, a possible sign of infection.
A pill organizer. To keep new and regular medicines straight.
Step 4: Set up your home
Create a recovery spot on the main floor if stairs will be hard
Clear walkways and remove throw rugs and cords that could cause a fall
Keep medicines, water, your phone, glasses and instructions within reach
Put everyday items at waist height so you do not have to bend or reach
Prepare easy meals ahead or line up help from family and neighbors
Arrange care for pets and rides to follow up appointments
Step 5: Plan for questions
Questions come up, often at night or on the weekend. Write down the phone numbers for your surgeon's office and the pharmacy, and keep them near your recovery spot.
As a general guide, call your surgeon's office for questions about the incision, fever, swelling or pain that is getting worse. Call the pharmacy for questions about how to take medicines, side effects or whether something is safe to take together. For emergencies, call 911.
If you use CPAP
If you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, let your surgical team know before your procedure. They may ask you to bring it to the hospital. Make sure your mask and supplies are in good shape before surgery. Healthcare Providers Inc. carries CPAP supplies if you need replacements.
Support close to home
Healthcare Providers Inc. is an independent pharmacy at 1900 North 1st Street in Hamilton, serving the Bitterroot Valley. We are open Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 6 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday 9 AM to 1 PM. Call (406) 363 6203 or stop by with your list, and we will help you get ready.
