HipReplacement

Planning Ahead After Your Surgery

Although your hospital stay will be short, things that can improve your recovery and will include your ability to: • Check with your surgeon to determine what medical equipment you will need • Arrange furniture so you can walk around easily • Clear clutter from the floors of your home and remove any throw rugs so you won’t trip and fall • Check that hand rails are secure both entering your home and within • Be sure you have a clear path to the entrance of your home • Get a non-slip mat for the bottom of your bathtub to prevent slipping • Wrap up or tape down any long electric/ telephone cords • Sleeping in a reclined and supported position may be more comfortable after surgery. Using a recliner or multiple pillows may also make sleeping easier. • Buy a cordless phone or portable phone • Store food and supplies that you use often in cupboards or on counters that are at waist to shoulder level • Place clothing that you use most often in drawers and closets at waist to shoulder level • Buy or make individual meals that can be frozen or reheated easily • If recommended by your surgeon, shoulder pulleys and other personal care devices can be purchased beforehand or bought in the Mercy Gift Shop. • Arrange to Have Someone: • Take you home from the hospital by 10 AM on your day of discharge, usually after two nights in the hospital. • Stay with you for the first week after you go home from the hospital • Help with house cleaning, chores, and laundry • Help with errands and groceries • Take you to your doctor’s office for follow-up visits • Care for a child, spouse, pet, or parent while you are in the hospital and after you are discharged from the hospital