Tips for a winning post-operative recovery experience

If you are scheduled for a future surgical procedure, you need to know that the surgical procedure is only part of the cure. The degree of success for many procedures is dependent upon the quality of recovery. Patients who take an active role in their recovery by teaming up with their doctors can have a positive effect on recovery. Here are several tips for improving the quality of post-operative recovery

The power of sleep
Elevating your knee after knee surgery may seem like you are following orders to rest. However, getting rest also means getting more sleep. The body uses a lot of energy during the healing process so more sleep is needed. The body also heals more effectively during sleep so be sure to take the steps needed to get sufficient sleep, including pain management.

The importance of fluids
During recovery, it is important to stay hydrated so that the body is able to flush cellular waste. Drinking more water also helps blood to bring more oxygen and nutrients to areas where they are needed. Be sure to drink more water or even a low-sugar electrolyte beverage to keep hydrated.

The dangers of stress
Stress can have a negative impact on the healing process, so take steps to reduce factors that bring on stress. Inform your workplace that you need time off. Get help from friends and family for daily tasks. Arrange furniture for easy movement and use assistive devices as needed. If stress continues to be an issue, try breathing exercises, calming music or meditation.

Exercise your limbs
Rest does not mean immobility. Try to get up two to three times a day and change your resting positions frequently. Movement helps decrease the progression of deconditioning. Ask for help if your balance is poor but focus on getting up several times a day. When the doctor says its time, get started on your physical therapy program to regain strength, flexibility and balance.

Care for your wound
The surgical site requires careful attention. Follow your doctor’s instructions for changing dressings and keeping the area moist and clean. Report any signs of infection quickly. Do not apply any creams without your doctor’s approval since some can have negative side effects.

Cough to clear the lungs
Being under anesthesia affects normal breathing and reduces the urge to cough. Fluid can build up in the lungs as a result. Coughing can clear the fluid and helps the lungs to re-inflate for better health. Coughing can also reduce the chances of developing pneumonia.

Eat to fuel healing
Getting the right nutrients can help the body to heal. Proteins found in foods like chicken and eggs can provide energy and help with healing. Vitamin C found in fruits, iron found in fish and eggs and fiber found in grains can all help with the healing process. Skip sugary food since they can cause sudden changes in blood sugar levels and induce a feeling of fatigue.

Rely on others
There are a lot of things to remember during recovery. Having someone around who can help is important. If you are feeling sleepy and weak, forgetting to take medications, drink water or eat meals is a real possibility and can slow recovery. Having a friend or family member present who can prepare meals and medications, assist with movement and keep your spirits up is a wise decision.

Adding another partner
An ideal option of carrying out all of the steps for a successful recovery is adding a short-term care facility like Glenview Terrace to your recovery team. Glenview Terrace staff members will work with your physician to be sure all your medical, physical, emotional and personal needs are met during recovery. Glenview Terrace offers health care expertise combined with an unrelenting commitment to comfort, dignity and guest satisfaction, making it one of the area’s finest choices for rehabilitation.

Glenview Terrace has earned a reputation for offering one of the best post-hospital care programs in the area. Instead of having to rely on a friend or family member to help you with recovery, you can rest assured that the staff will address all your needs. They provide one-on-one physical, occupational and speech therapies up to seven days a week and provide round-the-clock care for every need that arises from wound care to pain management. Healthy meals, quiet resting times and compassionate care provide a healthy and stress-free recovery experience.

This specialized care is offered in an elegant environment. The well-appointed rooms and suites are filled with custom-designed furnishings and include a deluxe bathroom with a private shower. Guests are pampered with a variety of amenities including attentive concierge service, morning coffee and newspaper delivered daily to the room, diverse menu selections and more.

When forming your recovery team, consider Glenview Terrace where the goal is getting you quickly and safely back to your independent lifestyle. For more information or to arrange a tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.