What If I Don’t Have Anyone to Stay With Me After Surgery?
Planning for a safe recovery begins before your procedure.
If you’re having outpatient surgery or a procedure involving anesthesia or sedation, your surgical team may require a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you afterward. But what if no one is available?
Perhaps you live alone, your family lives far away, or your spouse has health needs of their own. You may also prefer to keep your procedure private. Whatever the reason, you have options.
Why is someone needed after surgery?
Anesthesia and pain medications can affect your balance, judgment, memory, and ability to recognize a problem—even when you feel alert. The person who accompanies you home can help you follow discharge instructions and get settled safely.
Ask your surgical center about its specific requirements before your procedure. An ordinary ride home may not meet them.
What support can I arrange?
A family member, friend, neighbor, or professional caregiver may be able to help. If you need clinical support, an experienced registered nurse can receive instructions from your care team, help with medications and mobility, monitor your recovery, and contact your surgeon if concerns arise.
Nursing Liaisons provides RN support for the transition home and recovery afterward. Care can be arranged for a few hours, overnight, or for several days, depending on your needs. Discuss the plan with your surgical center in advance so you know it meets their discharge requirements.
Questions to ask before your procedure
• Who will take me home, and does that person meet the surgical center’s requirements?
• Who will stay with me, and for how long?
• Have I filled my prescriptions and prepared my home?
• Who should I call if I have a question or concern?
• Would RN support help me feel more comfortable recovering at home?
You don’t have to figure everything out on the day of surgery. Making a plan ahead of time gives you one less thing to worry about and lets you focus on healing.
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