Post-Op Instructions for Ortho Day Surgery (Procedures in General)

Dressing: A dressing has been applied to your incision following surgery. This dressing should be left on until your office visit, unless otherwise specified by your physician or physician assistant. Although the dressing may become moist or bloodstained, this is not a cause for alarm. However, if the area in question is large or continues to bleed, you should call the office.

If the hand or foot below the area which was operated on develops swelling, you may need to loosen the bandage. However, you should check with your physician first.

Wounds: Your wound should be kept clean and dry. You should not allow your incisions to get wet in a shower or bath unless otherwise specified by your physician or physician assistant.

Activity: Specific recommendations concerning activity and rehabilitation will be given to you by your physician or physician assistant.

Pain: You have been given a prescription for pain medication which you may take as directed. You should not drive or drink alcohol while taking pain medications. Follow the guidelines in the pain management protocol for using your medication or as directed by your physician. Please inform us if you have any allergies to medications. If a rash develops or nausea and vomiting occurs notify our office for an alternative medication.

Diet: Start off with light meals and progress diet as tolerated. Carbohydrates will generally have a lower incidence of nausea and vomiting.

Precautions: If you develop a fever (temperature greater than 100.1 degrees Fahrenheit or 38.3 Celsius) or chills, or any undue symptoms such as unexpected pain, redness, swelling in your legs, rash, blisters, numbness, tingling, hives, or shortness of breath, please contact our office. If you have a problem or question, do not hesitate to call the office. The answering service will handle your calls to the office after hours and on weekends and one of the OA physicians will be available.

Return Appointment: Usually a return appointment will be arranged for you prior to surgery. If not, please call the office to arrange for a follow-up appointment.