If you’re planning to have surgery at Midwest Center for Joint Replacement, you’ll need to do some home preparation beforehand. Since more than half of our patients return home the same day of their surgery, odds are that you’ll be home within hours or a day after surgery. So we encourage you to make your home a safe and comfortable environment as you recover.
Here are a few tips for how to prepare your surroundings and lifestyle to have a successful recovery after joint replacement.
1. Rearrange things for easy access
Move items that you’ll need to counter height so you don’t ever have to reach or bend over. Go through each room in your house to brainstorm what should be moved (food items in your kitchen, bathroom and bathing supplies, phone chargers, etc) so that you don’t run into any problems once you’re home from surgery. You may also want to install night lights in your bathrooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
If you must use stairs in your house, make sure they have a secure handrail.
2. Create a comfortable resting area
Create a space in your home that will be exclusively yours as you recover. Make sure that area has a comfortable chair with a firm back and armrests. Keep a table nearby that includes necessities including water, your medications, your phone, a book, or the remote. Maybe even a backscratcher! This will prevent you from having to get up too often.
3. Remove rugs and other clutter
Remove things on the floor that are a safety or tripping hazard, including area rugs, doormats, and electrical cords. Purchase a non-stick bath mat to go inside your shower to avoid slips.
4. Arrange for help
For the first 3-5 days, you’ll want someone around 24 hours a day to assist you with anything you’ll need. You may also want to arrange for someone to collect your mail and take out the trash. If you have pets (especially very active ones!), consider boarding them for a few days after you return home.
If you have any questions about your recovery or preparations, you can speak with a nurse at 317-455-1064.