Download AFTER YOUR HERNIA SURGERY

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COMMENTS
FOLLOW-UP CARE
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT
AFTER
DATE:
YOUR
TIME:
HERNIA SURGERY
TO BE SCHEDULED:
SIGNATURE (optional)
Phone number (optional)
Date
WRH 0942 (REV 05/02)
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SELF CARE AFTER YOUR
HERNIA SURGERY
A hernia occurs when a muscle
wall is weak and organ(s) bulge
through the weak area. Hernia
surgery repairs the weak area.
It is important that you follow
these simple directions after
hernia surgery.
-------------------------------------------------------THINGS TO AVOID
1.
THINGS TO DO
2.
machinery while taking pain medication.
While the incision is tender wear soft,
loose-fitting clothes.
You will be taught deep breathing exercises
after surgery. Avoid coughing or sneezing.
If you do cough / sneeze, applying
Yes
movements.
□
No □
If no, please tell us how we can improve.
You may use a mild laxative if required.
-------------------------------------------------------THINGS TO REPORT TO YOUR DOCTOR
1.
Did the explanation and the information
provided prepare you for the procedure?
Avoid straining when having bowel
Bright red bleeding, redness, swelling or
a foul smell.
Take pain medications as directed by your
1.
includes small children.
2.
light cloth, to decrease swelling and pain.
doctor. Do not drink alcohol or operate
5.
care by answering the questions below.
abnormal drainage at incision site that has
at a time the first 24 hours after surgery.
4.
(greater than 5 lbs.) or straining for at
You may use an icepack, covered with a
This should only be left on for 10 minutes
3.
Please give us the opportunity to improve our
with one hand, don't attempt to lift it, this
Keep the incision clean and dry. You may
shower as directed by your physician.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting
least 2-4 weeks. If you can't lift an item
3.
1.
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2.
Any bowel/bladder difficulties.
3.
Fever over 38ºC (101ºF), chills or flu-like
2.
Did you feel your pain was well controlled
after the operation?
Yes
□
No □
symptoms.
4.
Tenderness, swelling or if pain is severe, or
lasts longer than 3 - 4 days.
If you experience any of the above, please seek
PLEASE TEAR OFF THIS SECTION
AND RETURN TO A STAFF MEMBER
BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE HOSPITAL.
medical attention or go to the Emergency
Department.
pressure with a small pillow / folded towel
over your incision will help support it.
------------------------------------------------------THINGS TO KNOW
1.
Ask your physician when you can return to
normal activities.
2.
You may have more intestinal “gas”.
Walking and warm fluids may help you pass
this. Added fluids and dietary fibre may
help to prevent constipation.
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