It’s normal to feel anxious and apprehensive when your doctor recommends that you undergo surgery. But, you can’t let your fear keep you from getting the treatment you need. One thing you can do to alleviate your worries is to know more about your procedure. This, along with the following steps, will help you ensure that your surgery will be a success.
Ask as many questions as you want
Before you meet with your surgeon, make sure first that you really understand why your physician has recommended that you undergo surgery. Then, learn what exactly the procedure is, so you know what to expect. Don’t worry about being ‘too inquisitive’ because it’s your right, as a patient, to know as much information about your upcoming operation. You should be allowed to ask your doctors the following things:
- Why are they recommending surgery?
- Can you ask for a second opinion?
- Can you do something to avoid undergoing surgery?
- If you choose not to go through with the operation, what could happen to you?
- What could go wrong with the operation?
- What kind of anaesthesia will be used on you?
- What kind of painkillers will be prescribed to you?
- How long will the operation last?
- How long will you have to stay in the hospital for recovery?
- What are the chances of a successful surgery?
Do a background check on your surgeon and the hospital
There’s also nothing wrong in doing a background check on your surgeon. And if you’re not comfortable with their track record, it’s your right to ask for a different doctor to take care of you. You should also check your hospital to see if they have the proper personnel, equipment, and medicines for your operation. It doesn’t matter if you want to ask the quality of their needle holders or their scalpels; it’s your right to dig as deep as you want on their facility’s quality.
Provide a thorough medical history
Once you’re satisfied with your surgeon’s background and the hospital’s efficiency, it’s time for you to give them all the information they need about your medical history. The more data they have of your health, the more capable they will be of predicting any complications that could arise during and after your surgery.
Abide by the pre-op, post-op, and recovery guidelines
Before you undergo the procedure, your doctor will advise you of the things you should and shouldn’t do. It could be about food items you can and can’t eat or medicines you won’t be allowed to take for the meantime. And when the operation is done, you’ll also still have to follow some guidelines, for example, avoiding moving around too much within a week after surgery. If you want a swift recovery and a fast healing process, make sure that you follow your physician’s instructions to the letter.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to raise your chances of going through your surgery without a hitch. So, be mindful of what you do before and after your operation.
