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Post-Surgery Home Recovery Checklist

Medium 20 items · 30 min
testuser's avatar
testuser Published 4 weeks ago
Health

This checklist helps patients and caregivers manage the first days and weeks after surgery at home. It covers wound care, medications, activity limits, DVT prevention, nutrition, follow-ups, and warning signs.

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  1. Read and save discharge instructions — Keep contact numbers, medication list, activity limits and dressing schedule handy.
  2. Fill prescriptions and label medications — Get meds filled before leaving and verify names/doses.
  3. Set medication reminders and log doses — Use alarms and a simple log to avoid missed or extra doses.
  4. Follow wound care instructions exactly — Use only products, techniques and timing your provider prescribed.
  5. Wash hands before touching the incision — Use soap and water or hand sanitizer every time.
  6. Change dressing per schedule using sterile supplies — Follow the frequency and sterile technique from your care plan.
  7. Keep incision clean and dry; protect when showering — Use a waterproof cover and pat dry; avoid baths until cleared.
  8. Check incision daily for infection signs — Watch for increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever.
  9. Contact your provider immediately for red-flag symptoms — Severe pain, fever >100.4°F, heavy bleeding, sudden shortness of breath, or swelling in a limb.
  10. Follow activity and lifting restrictions — Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting until cleared by your provider.
  11. Practice DVT prevention measures — Take steps to reduce blood clot risk after surgery.
  12. Wear prescribed compression stockings as instructed — Put them on before standing and follow duration guidance.
  13. Do ankle pumps and short walks every 1–2 hours — Keep circulation moving; avoid prolonged bed rest.
  14. Use pain control strategies as advised — Take prescribed meds on schedule and try ice, elevation, and relaxation.
  15. Eat protein-rich meals and stay hydrated — Include protein at each meal and sip fluids regularly for healing.
  16. Prevent opioid-related constipation — Use stool softeners, fiber, fluids, and gentle laxatives as needed.
  17. Schedule and confirm follow-up appointments — Book visits before discharge and note date, time and transport needs.
  18. Arrange transportation and at-home assistance — Line up rides and help with errands, meals and household tasks.
  19. Prepare home recovery area and supplies — Clear trip hazards, place essentials within reach, and stock supplies.
  20. Keep a recovery diary with wound photos and notes — Date-stamp photos and record meds, pain levels and bowel habits daily.
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