Important:
The following information will help you return to your best level of health. Everyone's rate of recovery is different.

You may not remember your procedure of what your procedure or what your doctor told you. You may sleep most of the day. This is normal because of the drugs you have been given.

If you are given a prescription, you may want to stop on the way home and get it filled. Because the medications you received at the hospital may be worn off, then you will have your prescription medicines to take.

Because of the sedation used for your procedure today:
Have a responsible person stay with you today for your protection and safety.Go directly home, NOT shopping. Limit your activities for 24 hours. NO driving, sports, heavy work, use of power tools, heavy lifting, skateboards, bicycle riding, or gym sets until your doctor gives you permission.Pain medication may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Be careful as you walk, drive, or climb stairs.Do not make important decisions or sign legal documents for 24 hours.

Diet:
Begin with liquids (jello, soup, juices) and toast.If you are not nauseated, start with a light diet. Avoid spicy, greasy, or gas-producing foods. These foods may cause nausea.Do not drink alcoholic beverages, including beer, for 24 hours. Alcohol increases the effects of sedation.:

Post operative pain management
Post operative pain may significantly hinder many patients from enjoying the most rapid possible recovery from major surgery. Pain may result in patients failing to use proper breathing techniques which can result in respiratory complications following surgery.

Post op pain may also cause patients to remain bedridden when they should be walking and exercising. These activities are important in discharging the patient from the hospital quickly and safely.

Medications:
You may take all your medicine at home, as directed by your doctor.Take any over-the-counter medications for relief of pain/discomfort as directed by your doctor.Take your prescription medications, if received, as ordered.It will take about six weeks for your body to heal.

Do the following:

• Rest today and slowly increase your activity.
• Avoid heavy lifting no more than 10-15 pounds.
• Climb stairs slowly and use the hand rail.
• Avoid extra trips.
• No running or jumping.
• No pushing, pulling or straining (vacuuming, shoveling, sweeping, etc.)
• Check with your doctor before driving.
• Check with your doctor before returning to work.
• Check with your doctor before resuming sexual activity.

• Trouble passing urine
• Increased bleeding or drainage from your incision
• Swellng, redness or opening of your incision
• Foul smell from your incision or dressing.
• Red streaks from your incision.
• Chills or fever over 101 degrees (by mouth)
• An opening in your incision.
• Pain not helped by your pain medicine.
• Trouble or pain with breathing.
• Increased nausea or vomiting.
• Constipation lasting longer than 2 days.
• Watery diarrhea stools (6 or more in a day)
• Any new problems, questions, or concerns.

Transportation:
You need a responsible adult to drive you home and care for you. If you have a problem and can't reach your doctor, go to the nearest Emergency Department. Redmond Regional Medical Center's Emergency Department telephone number is 706-291-0291 ext. 4840. If time permits, carry these instructions with you. Redmond's Emergency department is open 24 hours a day.