Post-operation care for any surgical procedure is usually a difficult time for patients and caregivers, alike. This is especially true for patients who have undergone laparoscopic hernia repair even if it is less invasive as traditional hernia surgeries. Extreme care need to be given to patients during recovery period because this is when pain and discomfort are felt at its worst.
Hernia repair in Los Angeles involves smaller incisions thereby requiring shorter recovery period and less pain. However, as with other surgical procedures, steps must still be taken to prevent complications.
Hernia surgery patients are normally given laxatives after the operation to facilitate softer stools and easier bowel movement. This must not be forgotten at all by the caregiver otherwise, it will be extremely painful for the patient when the need to release his bowel comes.
Definitely, doctors will prescribe oral pain medications to manage pain that will be experienced in the next number of days while recovering. Expect much pain and soreness at the surgical area and incision wounds. Caregivers should remind patients to take pain medications before sleeping to be able to sleep comfortably during the night.
Doctor’s instructions must be strictly followed. This will usually include keeping incisions clean and dry for up to 2 days after the surgery. During shower, some bandages that keep wounds waterproof may be used to protect it from getting wet. Leave dressings on until the next follow-up schedule. After the first follow-up visit, doctors may require changing the incision dressings often. Caregivers must be observant of abnormal signs that may be a sign of infection and may need doctor’s attention. Presence of swelling, increased temperature in the surgical area, redness, fever and pus are indicative of infection complications.
When the patient hasn’t had any bowel elimination for three days, experiences extreme pain not managed by oral medications, develops a new bulge at the site of the old hernia, and feels pain and difficulty in passing urine, it is also time to seek the doctor.
Immersing the wound in common areas such as swimming pools and using creams and lotions, is prohibited for the succeeding two weeks until the doctor has cleared the patient and complete healing has taken place.
Patients cannot have a full meal after release from the hospital. Patient may start with clear liquids gradually progressing to solid food as the gastrointestinal organs have adjusted. Maintain a diet that includes at least 8 glasses of water, whole grain and fruits and vegetables daily.
Lift heavy objects for the patient, help him walk, administer medications, help them bathe and implement nutritional intake are some of the responsibilities that caregivers have to do for their loved ones who have just had hernia repair surgery. Being around for a laparoscopic hernia surgery in Los Angeles patient does a lot to make recovery for patients a lot more comfortable and bearable.
For more Please visit :
http://socalhernia.com/herniarepair-laproscopicrepair.htm