Before and After Surgery Care to Promote and Speed Recovery

Like most everything else, standard procedures and guidelines for care before and after surgery have evolved in an effort to promote and speed recovery. Dr. Charla Fischer, an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Spine Center in New York City, suggests you think of surgery as you would a marathon or race. She says, "The surgery itself is just the first part of the race – there is also the recovery after.” So what you do before a planned surgical procedure and what you do after can all be part of a better outcome and even includes diet and exercise.

One example is a change in the way a person is treated after surgery in many hospitals. Now, rather than limiting patients to ice chips and intravenous fluids, they are served a meal. In addition, people are encouraged to get up and move as soon as the night following surgery, which appears to hasten recovery. However, doctors warn that people should be screened before surgery for conditions such as malnutrition, anemia, diabetes and pain, and if it is found they have any, it should be addressed.

Also, find out what exercises would be helpful and doable before and after surgery, and what is not recommended. Ask about your hospital’s rehabilitation program or the availability of a physical therapist. After surgery, stay hydrated and be sure to eat a protein-rich diet and lots of fresh vegetables. Another thing that will aid your postoperative recovery and overall health is to stop smoking.

As a bigger percentage of surgeries are in people over 65 years of age, your doctor will let you know the type of screening that is required before surgery. It will most likely include things such as cardiac health, functional status and history of falls, frailty and other factors.

Along with memory care and assisted living, Houston’s MorningStar at River Oaks offers respite care for seniors recovering from surgery or illness. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar and the many resort-style amenities and services we provide.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers.

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/tips-for-recovering-from-surgery

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