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Sections
THE SURGICAL PROCESS
Understand the surgical process
STEP 01
Before the surgery
A few days before surgery, the surgeon may order a pre-op exam consisting of blood tests, anECG (electrocardiogram) and a chest x-ray to be sure the heart and lungs are in good condition. The surgeon will prescribe all necessary medications and any nutritional supplements required. The surgeon may also give a prescription for pain medication to take after surgery.
STEP 02
The day of surgery
When arriving at the hospital for surgery, consent forms will need to be signed as part of the admission process. Blood pressure will be taken and the patient will be given an IV (intravenous line). The patient's surgical area may need to be scrubbed and shaved to guard against infection. The anaesthetist will review the type of anaesthesia required. Medication may be given for relaxation before going to the operating room. In the operating room, the anaesthesia will be administered and the procedure will be completed.
STEP 03
Waking up after surgery
After waking up from surgery, there may be an IV used to provide fluids and pain medications, there may also be small bandages or glue over any incisions that were made during surgery. Small amounts of food and drink will be given to the patient shortly after they wake up.
STEP 04
Before leaving the hospital
A nurse will go over any discharge instructions with patients before they leave the hospital. These instructions will include what to expect over the first few days, how to care for the incision(s), and a list of symptoms and warning signs. They will also provide a number to call if the patient has any concerns or questions.
STEP 05
Going home after surgery
In addition to eating, drinking and being steady on their feet, a patient will have to be able to urinate before going home. A responsible adult should be there to drive the patient home and assist with any household duties for the first few days after surgery.
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Recovery after hernia surgery
It is important to rest for a few days after surgery. A pillow can be used to put over the abdomen for support in case of coughing, sneezing or vomiting (which can be a side effect of anaesthesia). Coughing, sneezing and vomiting can cause discomfort after hernia surgery.
The incision(s) may be sore for two or three days after surgery and may be swollen, bruised, tender and numb. This is normal after surgery and should go away within a few weeks. The surgeon should be contacted if there are any concerns.
Warning signs post-surgery
If any of the following occur after surgery, the patient should contact a doctor.
- Fever (over 38.3°C)
- Odour or increased drainage from your incision
- No bowel movements for 3 days or more
- Excessive sweating
- Difficulty urinating
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Worsening pain
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