Preparing for your return home
Your home will need to be adequately prepared for your return in order to avoid over-using the injured arm after surgery. The following suggestions may help:
Ensure frequently used items such as canned food, pots and pans, and utensils are at counter height to prevent overextending the arm.
Obtain additional pillows as these will provide extra support for your arm in bed or when sitting.
Clear your walking paths of any objects that may cause you to trip or fall.
Ensure you have an adequate supply of toiletries, tinned, ready made and frozen foods.
If possible, keep a stool or chair in the kitchen to rest if needed. You may find it easier to prepare food sitting down.
Consider additional bathroom accessories such as:
A shower seat – this can help minimise the risk of falling in the shower but can also give you the opportunity to rest during the process.
A grab bar – will help with balance.
A detachable shower-head will help to avoid getting the surgical site wet.
You will need a responsible adult with you for 24hrs after a general anaesthetic so arrange for someone to be with you. You may also need help with shopping and cleaning.
You will not be able to drive yourself home and for about 6 – 8 weeks if you have had a repair so make arrangements for transportation from hospital and to relevant appointments if required.
Stock up on healthy snacks which are easy to prepare and consume with one hand such as apples, pears, grapes, nuts.
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.
Friends and family are useful not only for help with task around the house but will be useful for emotional support which is essential for your recovery. Do not decline the offer of others to help.
References
NHS (2022) NHS talking therapies. Accessed 28 August 2022
Royal College of Surgeons (2021) Preoperative Assessment and Optimisation for Adult Surgery including consideration of COVID-19 and its implications. Accessed 3 October 2022
Age UK (2022) Homecare: How to find the care you need at home. Accessed 3 September 2022
Compass by WebMD (2018) How to plan for recovery at home after surgery. Accessed 1 September 2022.