Third in Our Series: Planning for a Safe Recovery After Surgery. Read the first and second stories here.

Here is a Simple Checklist for a Safer, Less Stressful Recovery

Outpatient surgery may mean you’re going home the same day, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for your recovery. A little planning before your procedure can make those first hours and days at home safer and less stressful.

1. Know Who Is Taking You Home

If you’re receiving anesthesia or sedation, you may not be allowed to drive yourself home. Confirm your transportation ahead of time.

2. Choose Who Will Stay With You

Don’t wait until the day before surgery to figure this out. Ask your medical team how long they recommend someone remain with you after your procedure.

If family or friends aren’t available, professional help—including an experienced Registered Nurse—is an excellent option.

3. Understand Your Discharge Plan

Ask what you should expect after surgery. Will you have activity restrictions? A dressing or incision to care for? Special equipment? Knowing ahead of time makes it easier to prepare.

4. Fill Your New Prescriptions

Whenever possible, have your post-procedure medications already at home before surgery. The last thing you want to do after a procedure is wait at a pharmacy.

5. Prepare Your Home

Create a comfortable recovery area and remove potential fall hazards. Put frequently used items within easy reach, especially if your mobility will be limited.

6. Plan for Meals and Hydration

Have simple meals, snacks, and plenty of fluids readily available. If you need help preparing food, arrange for that before your procedure.

7. Think About Mobility

Will you need crutches, a walker, cane, braces, or other equipment? Make sure you understand how to use it safely before you go home.

8. Know Who to Call

Keep your primary care provider and surgeon’s contact information and after-hours number easily accessible. Make sure you understand which symptoms are expected and which should prompt a call to your medical team or emergency care.

9. Don’t Forget the Little Things

Think about pets, stairs, laundry, groceries, transportation to follow-up appointments, and other everyday tasks that may suddenly become difficult after surgery.

10. Have a Recovery Plan—Not Just a Surgery Plan

We spend a lot of time preparing for the procedure itself, but recovery begins the moment you leave the surgical center.

Ask yourself: Who will be there when I get home?

An experienced Registered Nurse can provide more than a ride home. A nurse can receive your discharge instructions, help you get safely settled, assist with medications and mobility, monitor your recovery, and recognize when something may need the attention of your medical team.

At Nursing Liaisons, our team of Registered Nurses provide post-surgical support throughout Greater Boston—from a few hours after an outpatient procedure to overnight or multi-day care. We’re here to support your recovery.