Three Secrets to Prepare for Surgery

Dr. Liza Leal discusses her latest medical journey  through major surgery to help encourage you and your family. Even with the best laid plans sometimes there are hiccups and you have to know what to do when that occurs. After 4 years in a wheelchair with Rheumatoid Arthritis, let’s just say things happen. Today we want to share with you  3 steps to a faster recovery. 

Step 1. Have a written plan for your surgery and post -op surgery

a.       Do you get nauseous easily- be sure your anesthesiologist and all the doctors on your team are aware of it.

b.       Are you sensitive to pain medications, many may not be aware that many times less pain medication works well. It is important to have a plan for your medications and a relationship with your primary care physician if you need someone who knows you to advocate for you. It’s what we do in primary care and your pre-surgery visit.

c.       Bring your favorite pillow, blanket and home pictures to help you focus on recovery.

d.       Bring a few of your favorite snacks like bone broth #Bariwise, oatmeal, or #jello

e.       Ask when you arrive to your room if a snack is available and order your meals it can take hours depending on the time you are released from the post-op recovery room.

f.        Don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to ask for an administrator or patient liason if you feel you are not being heard. It’s okay, having surgery and being a patient, you are very vulnerable and it is uncomfortable to release control.

g.       Nurses are healers -- be kind they are there to help you recover and have a heart  and passion for caring for you

h.       Know all the numbers to your doctor’s after hour and or on-call person. You may need to call them if there is a transfer order that was not communicated between the nurses leaving a gap in care. Your doctor wants all their orders followed and they are your advocate and the maestro to your best care. 

i.         If there is an on call doctor, be sure to have them visit with you. In today’s technology a video conference is easy at 3 am. It’s what we do as doctor’s we are here to serve and emergencies are emergencies.

Step 2 Discharge Planning

a.       Be sure to have a discharge plan with an appointment scheduled for your follow up.

b.       If you have multiple surgeons and doctor’s to follow up with be sure all are scheduled before you leave.

c.       If you need rehabilitation and physical therapy have your appointments scheduled a case manager or social worker is key to helping you navigate these areas and your personal advocate whether a spouse, family member, or close friend can be sure these are all part of the check off list in getting ready to go home.

Step 3 Going Home

a.       Bring a pillow for your ride  home if you need to be situated to be more comfortable 

b.       Stay positive, Be kind

c.       Have your medications delivered prior to your surgery or after your surgery use a delivery service. Many pharmacies will offer a delivery service and it is helpful during a time you may not be able to drive.

d.       Have a few meal plans already to go so you do not have to think about the basics, grocery shopping before your hospital dates if it is schedules is very helpful otherwise #instacart is a Godsend. 

We hope you liked our podcast today with Mike Herzing of #let’s talk wheels and Dr. Liza Leal, your @everydayhealthhacker the Chief Medical Officer of Meridian Health Institute and Meridian Medical Dental Healthcare. Reach out to us on all social platforms and subscribe.

IG @everydayhealthhacker @meridianhealthinstitute @dog_tor_Denali LinkedIn Dr. Liza Leal

As our gift to you receive a free tooth paste as your health starts in with your smile! 

We want to know your questions email us at info@meridianhealthinstitute or info@everydayhealthhacker. For free nutritional guidelines visit everydayhealthhacker.com

Shout out to #BoneBroth from #Bariwise 

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Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and your #lovedones!

God Bless and we will see you next week, reach out to us on social media platforms and or call our office 281-265-6565, your referral is our highest compliment.