Preparing for Orthopedic Surgery in Catawba County

You Can Take Steps to Ensure Your Procedure Proceeds as Planned

Orthopedic surgery can be a highly effective treatment for joint pains and bone disease, but the post-operative period can be strenuous. In this guide, we provide information on what to expect after an orthopedic procedure and how our staff will do everything in their power to make you feel comfortable.

Preventing Post-Surgical Pain

Some level of discomfort is expected after surgery, but there are things you can do before the operation to mitigate pain. During a pre-procedure interview, a nurse or physician will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery. Following these instructions is vital for a successful operation and to feel as comfortable as possible during post-op care.

During the interview, make sure the nurse or physicians instructs you on:

• How often you should take pain medication after the surgery
• What to eat before the surgery for an easier recovery
• How to properly bathe beforehand to prevent infection
• Simple exercises you can do before and after surgery to relieve pain

What to Expect After Surgery

Once you have recovered from anesthesia after surgery, you will be transferred to a recovery room. A nurse and nursing assistant will handle your care from here. They will be responsible for checking your vitals, providing medication, and planning activities to facilitate your recovery. You will be provided with a 1 to 10 scale for measuring pain. It is important that you give the staff an accurate representation of the discomfort you feel so that post-operative care is planned accordingly.

In some situations, your pain medications will be as-needed rather than scheduled. Pain medication can take some time to take effect, so be sure to ask for it before the pain becomes unbearable. For your safety, pain medication requests may sometimes be denied to prevent complications. If this happens, someone will help you relieve the pain through alternative methods such as readjusting your resting position, providing ice packs, or guiding you through simple stretches and exercises. Physical therapy will begin the evening of your surgery or the day after you can recover as fast as possible.

The more prepared you are for surgery, the easier it will be to adjust to post-operative care. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.