1. No category

 Helpful Tips to Prepare for Your Surgery
Many of the people we serve today in post-hospital care are surgery patients. Although our
specialty is in helping these patients to recover quickly and fully after their surgeries, we
believe it is also important for them to understand the beneficial things they can do before their
surgery. There are several recommended steps that patients can take prior to their surgery that
can help them to achieve the best possible surgical outcomes and a speedy recovery
afterwards:
Ask Questions About Your Procedure
Don’t be shy. Take the time to understand all aspects of your upcoming surgery. Be sure to
talk with your doctor so you know what to expect before, during, and after surgery. You might
want to discuss the following areas of your care:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
What is the process for being admitted to the hospital?
What type of anesthesia will I receive?
How long will my surgery take?
How will my pain be managed after surgery?
How long will I stay in the hospital?
How long will my recovery take?
What will my post-surgery care entail after I leave the hospital?
Note: If you will require post-hospital care, it is wise to plan ahead and be confident that you
are selecting a high quality provider with the professional staff, services and patient outcomes
that will be most beneficial to your recovery.
Gather Your Insurance, Personal and Medical Information Ahead of Time
Take some time before your surgery date to assemble all the important information you will
need for your surgery. These items typically include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Your insurance coverage
Current medical conditions and medications
Allergies, including food allergies
Dietary restrictions
Medical history
Legal arrangements such as your Advanced Medical Directives and Power of Attorney
Names, addresses, and phone numbers for all of your doctors
The name and phone number of the family member or friend who will accompany you for
your surgery
Be as Healthy and Fit as Possible for Your Surgery
Arriving for your surgery in good physical condition is also very important for a good surgical
result and rapid recovery. Getting in the best physical shape possible before surgery can
lessen the chance for complications and shorten your recovery time. Therefore:
• If you currently smoke, cut down or quit. Smoking affects blood circulation, delays healing
and slows recovery.
• Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet.
• If you drink, do not consume any alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery.
• If you use any other types of controlled substances, tell your doctor. Certain drugs can
cause complications and affect your surgery.
• Ask your doctor about exercises you can do before surgery. For example, if you are having a
hip or knee replacement, strengthening your upper body will make it easier to use crutches
or a walker while you recover after surgery.
Experience State-of-the-Art Post-Hospital Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care at Its Best
Located in Vernon, CT, Vernon Manor Health Care Center has proudly served the
communities of Hartford and Tolland Counties for nearly 40 years, earning a highly respected
reputation for delivering outstanding quality care, successful outcomes and exceptional
service for our patients, residents and their families.
We provide a proven rehabilitation program, Recover Right, to enable patients to continue on
their path to recovery as well as compassionate long-term care for loved ones who require 24hour nursing support. For more information on post-hospital rehabilitation or long-term care –
or to schedule an informative tour at your convenience – please contact Karen V. Duhamel
MSN, MS, RN our Director of Admissions at (860) 896-5113.