Questions?
Can the person I care for take a bath or shower after surgery?
This will depend on the type of surgery and the surgeon’s orders. If the person is allowed to bathe, do not soak the wound until after stitches are removed. Do not allow a gauze dressing to become wet – talk with your doctor about how to protect the wound (such as cover with saran wrap).
My husband says he feels really good and wants to try to drive. The doctor’s nurse said he should not drive for 4 weeks. Is it okay for him to go ahead and drive?
No. Follow the surgeon’s orders. If your husband is recovering well, call the surgeon and talk with him about this.
My wife has a pain medicine prescribed by the surgeon. In between doses she seems a bit uncomfortable still. Can I give her some acetaminophen?
No, your wife’s pain medicines may not be offering good pain relief. Be sure you are giving the medicines as directed. If pain persists after giving a dose of pain medicine, call the surgeon. Also, some pain medicines contain acetaminophen, do not give extra doses unless ordered by the surgeon.
My father has to wear elastic stockings. How often can I help him take them off?
Generally speaking, elastic stockings are worn through-out the day and removed at bedtime