Post Operative Instructions

WOUND CARE:

• Leave the abdominal binder in place.
• Empty the drains every 8 hours and record the output.    
• The drain bulbs must hang free; do not tuck them in.
• Do not use a heating pad!
• It is normal to have some bloody drainage which may soak through the dressing.  Add gauze to the dressing as needed.
• DO NOT remove the tapes over the incisions.
• DO NOT apply ointment to the incisions.
• DO NOT SMOKE!  You must also avoid secondary smoke.

• Take it easy for several days.
• Move your feet and legs frequently while resting. 
• Walk around the room every time you get up.
• Do not perform strenuous activity for six weeks.

• Start with liquids and advance to a regular diet as tolerated

• Take your prescribed pain medication as directed.  If you do not need the pain medication, do not take it. Cut back as your pain improves or if it makes you too drowsy.
• You may supplement with Tylenol as needed.
• Take your antibiotics as directed.
• It is advisable to take a stool softener and extra fiber such as Metamucil while taking the pain medications.
• Do not take aspirin containing products.

PROBLEMS:

• If you have any problems, such as:
  1. Excessive drainage, pain or swelling
  2. Fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit
  3. Calf pain, ankle or leg swelling or difficulty breathing
…please call the office at (614) 459-0060 day or night.
• In case of extreme emergency, call 911.

• Call the office to schedule your follow up appointment for: