Preparing your home for post-surgical recovery in advance will reduce stress by minimizing the number of items on your to-do list. It will also help you keep the focus on your recovery. The following steps will help you transform your home into a comfortable, convenient haven for healing.
Bed, Bath, and Beginning Your Recovery
Since recovering from surgery requires rest, getting your bedroom ready is a priority. Ideally, you should sleep on the first floor or a floor with ready access to your bathroom and kitchen.
Renting a hospital bed can help you reposition yourself for optimal resting comfort. Rent the bed in advance so you can change the sheets and lay out your sleeping clothes the day before surgery. Getting a bag that you can tie to one of the bed’s side rails will give you a handy place for stowing your phone, medications, and other essentials.
Your bathroom needs to be as close to your bed as possible, and it is a good idea to have a basket to keep your toiletries within easy reach. Consider getting an elevated toilet seat, grab bars, and a shower chair for mobility support. Use a non-skid rug and bath mat for added safety.
Friends, Food, and Furniture
Post-surgical complications are most common during the first few days following a procedure. It’s a good idea (and often a requirement) to have someone with you during this time. If no one is available, contact a neighborhood nursing agency about hiring a certified nursing assistant, home health aide, or another nursing professional for a few days.
While you have someone else with you, they can help you prepare meals or shop for heat-and-eat foods. Nutritious foods to boost your recovery include nuts, produce, and canned soup. Your loved one or caregiver can put plates, cups, and utensils in your dish drainer or your counter to keep them accessible.
As with your bedroom and bathroom, you must make your home as safe as possible. Maintain clear walking paths, remove rugs or other hazards, and install nightlights for visibility throughout your living space. Taking these steps will give you a home that maximizes your recovery and minimizes your risk of falls or other complications after surgery.
Recovering from surgery at home can be a difficult process, but it is possible to do safely and successfully with the proper support. With careful planning and following your doctor’s instructions, you can heal in your own home without compromising your progress.