Post-Surgery Home Recovery Checklist

20 items · Health · Medium difficulty · 30 min

Essential at-home checklist to recover safely after surgery.

• Read and save discharge instructions

  Keep contact numbers, medication list, activity limits and dressing schedule handy.

• Fill prescriptions and label medications

  Get meds filled before leaving and verify names/doses.

• Set medication reminders and log doses

  Use alarms and a simple log to avoid missed or extra doses.

• Follow wound care instructions exactly

  Use only products, techniques and timing your provider prescribed.

• Wash hands before touching the incision

  Use soap and water or hand sanitizer every time.

• Change dressing per schedule using sterile supplies

  Follow the frequency and sterile technique from your care plan.

• Keep incision clean and dry; protect when showering

  Use a waterproof cover and pat dry; avoid baths until cleared.

• Check incision daily for infection signs

  Watch for increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever.

• 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.

• Follow activity and lifting restrictions

  Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting until cleared by your provider.

• Practice DVT prevention measures

  Take steps to reduce blood clot risk after surgery.

• Wear prescribed compression stockings as instructed

  Put them on before standing and follow duration guidance.

• Do ankle pumps and short walks every 1–2 hours

  Keep circulation moving; avoid prolonged bed rest.

• Use pain control strategies as advised

  Take prescribed meds on schedule and try ice, elevation, and relaxation.

• Eat protein-rich meals and stay hydrated

  Include protein at each meal and sip fluids regularly for healing.

• Prevent opioid-related constipation

  Use stool softeners, fiber, fluids, and gentle laxatives as needed.

• Schedule and confirm follow-up appointments

  Book visits before discharge and note date, time and transport needs.

• Arrange transportation and at-home assistance

  Line up rides and help with errands, meals and household tasks.

• Prepare home recovery area and supplies

  Clear trip hazards, place essentials within reach, and stock supplies.

• Keep a recovery diary with wound photos and notes

  Date-stamp photos and record meds, pain levels and bowel habits daily.

Printed from TickYouOff — the interactive version tracks your progress and can be shared with others.