If you are facing an upcoming spinal surgery, it can be a scary time that brings up lots of questions in your mind. Undergoing surgery is never an experience you look forward to, but it can reward you with better health and relief from chronic pain. As you prepare for your upcoming spinal surgery, there are several things you should keep in mind. Go through this list to be sure you have everything in order before your surgery day rolls around.
First, make sure you pack a hospital bag that has everything you will need. You should include all your personal identification, including your driver’s license and insurance information. Also include some slippers or a favorite pair of socks. You might want a book to read after surgery during your recovery time or your MP3 player programmed with relaxing music. If your insurance company requires you to pay a co-pay or deductible prior to surgery, be prepared by bringing along your checkbook or wallet. Make sure you leave valuables at home. There is no need to bring jewelry or makeup. The hospital will also provide you with all the toiletries you need unless you just want to bring your own from home.
Once your hospital bag is packed, the next step is to think through the logistics of your actual surgery day. Have you arranged transportation? You will need someone to drive you to and from the hospital. You should also have at least one loved one who will stay with you before surgery and be there for you right after surgery to offer comfort.
Next, think about any pre-operative instructions you received. Make sure you review these about 24 hours before your surgery to insure you take all proper precautions. In most cases, you will be asked not to eat or drink after midnight the night before you are scheduled to have spinal surgery. You should also avoid cigarettes, gum, and even mints after midnight. Most doctors recommend that you avoid all alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before your surgery. Your doctor may ask you to bathe with an antibacterial soap before your surgery. After doing so, don’t apply any kind of lotion or makeup onto your skin. You should take out your contacts and remove any nail polish or artificial nails.
Finally, make arrangements for life after your spinal surgery. Who will take care of you as you recover? Do you have someone recruited to bring you meals for the first few days when you cannot get up and down easily to prepare your own food? Give this some careful thought and plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stress after your spinal surgery.
