PREPARING FOR SURGERY
How to optimise your health and plan for your admission in the weeks before surgery
Information for patients and their families about having surgery and anaesthesia at Prince of Wales Hospital
DELIRIUM PREVENTION
NUTRITION
Maintaining adequate nutrition is crucial before and after surgery. Monitor to your weight and consider writing this down in a notebook.
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Dr Norris may also refer you to see a dietitian if there are significant concerns about your nutritional status.
EXERCISE, DEEP BREATHING AND MOBILISATION
Preventing decline in your walking and function is important before surgery. Make sure to bring any walking aids into hospital with you, along with loose fitting clothes and comfortable shoes.
This video discusses the importance of early mobilisation and deep breathing.
This handout from SA Health can also help you understand why breathing exercises can help prevent chest infections.
CONTROLLING PAIN
Controlling pain is important to your recovery to facilitate deep breathing and recovery.
Your surgeon or anaesthetist may recommend a 'PCA' - patient controlled analesia.
General information on pain control after surgery can be found here: Health.Vic and Cleveland Clinic
MEDICATIONS
Make sure you have an up to date list of your medications available as well as bringing them into hospital with you. Some of your medications may be withheld in advance of surgery, make sure you have discussed this with your treating team beforehand.
PREHABILITATION
Prehabilitation refers to optimisation of your health in advance of a procedure or treatment. This is generally accepted to incorporate physical therapy, nutritional support and psychological preparation in addition to minimising drug and alcohol intake. Dr Norris can discuss a prehabilitation plan with you in advance of surgery.
This Canadian online Prehabilitation video series by the Doctors of BC provides excellent insights into how you can start this process yourself as well.