You need to prepare for your return home to make recovery manageable for you especially if you live on your own.
Most patients who have struggled with their hips have found a way of coping on their own at home before surgery, but if you have any concerns you may ask for support from a relative or friend.
You will not be able to drive for several weeks after surgery, therefore you will need someone to take you home from the hospital and be on hand to run errands or take you to appointments until you can drive yourself.
Here are a few important things you need to consider in preparation for your discharge home:
Shopping - stock up on needed items, like non-perishable foods.
Food - Prepare and freeze some simple meals. You can have them on hand to put in the microwave when it’s time to eat.
Location of items - place items you use every day at waist level to avoid reaching up or bending down
Bag/rucksack - to carry things around the house while on crutches
An apron with pockets – an alternative to allow you to carry items while leaving your hands free for crutches. You'll be glad you have one handy!
Flask - for hot drinks
Complete some domestic tasks prior to admission to hospital
Remove rugs and obstacles to prevent trips and falls
Ensure good lighting
Obtain firm pillows for your chairs, sofas, and car which will enable you to sit with your knees lower than your hips as recommended
Securely fastened safety bars or handrails in the shower
Consider getting a raised toilet seat if you have an unusually low toilet seat. Sometimes the surgeon my recommend a raised toilet seat one regardless of the height of their toilet seats and some patients find it makes getting off the toilet much easier and more comfortable.
Washing and dressing
In order to promote independence with washing and dressing, especially if you live on your own, you may consider purchasing the following devices.
Long-handled reaches ( braai tongs ) - these will help you to retrieve items placed on high shelves or dropped on the floor.
Long- handled sponge or shower hose
Shower benches – these will allow you to sit in the shower to avoid falls.
Dressing sticks – You will be restricted from bending down too far. These will help.
References
NHS, 2018, Arranging care before you leave the hospital, viewed 23 December 2020
Versus Arthritis 2018, Hip Replacement Surgery, viewed 18 December 2020,