Shoulder-Guidebook-V1

Planning Ahead After Your Surgery

Although your hospital stay will be short, things that can improve your recovery and will include your ability to:

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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

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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

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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.

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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