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Preparing Before Your Surgery

By , About.com Guide

Updated: January 04, 2009

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Arrange for Help After Surgery

Some patients will require more assistance after their surgery than others. In any case, you should arrange for a reliable person to transport you to and from the hospital for your surgery. Driving yourself is unsafe as anesthesia drugs can affect your ability to drive and to make decisions quickly.

If your recovery lasts more than a few days you may want to arrange for help around the house. You may be unable to perform typical household duties that require standing for extended periods of time or bending and lifting, such as washing dishes and doing laundry.

If you will need physical therapy after your discharge, consider scheduling your appointments prior to the surgery, you will have more appointment times to choose from and you can arrange for transportation well in advance.

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