Post-Op Rehab Supplies You Didn’t Know You Needed

For people who are bed-ridden after surgery, it is important to stock up on necessities before going into hospital. We recommend that you or the person looking after you purchase the following post-op medical and rehab supplies, to ensure your post-op experience is as easy and comfortable as possible.

Wound Care Supplies

Although some operations are non-invasion, many result in the creation of fresh wounds that need to be looked after. While you may need to go back to your doctor to have dressings changed or drains removed, certain wound care can be done at home, which is why you will need to stock up on proper medical supplies for either yourself or the person looking after you to use.

Examples of wound care supplies include:

• Gauze
• Medical gloves
• Alcohol Wipes and Disinfectants
• Bandages
• Pain Relieving Medications

Preventing Bed Sores

Bedsores occur when excess pressure on certain parts of the body starts to restrict blood flow to underlying skin and tissue. They are very commonly found in people who are bedridden and unable to move throughout the day. The areas most affected are the heels, elbows and buttocks, as well as other areas where the bone is closer to the skin such as the spine and shoulder blades.

If properly prepared, post-op bedsores are completely avoidable. Consider investing in some of the following devices to prevent the formation of bedsores.

• Alternating Pressure Mattress or Pad

  One of the best ways to prevent bedsores is to invest in an alternating pressure mattress or pad. These devices use pumps to inflate a mattress (or pad) with air, which systematically changes the amount of pressure exerted on a patient over the course of the day. Because excess pressure is the main cause of bedsores, purchasing an alternating pressure device is one of the best preventative methods on the market.

• Foam Mattress or Cushion

  For those who can’t afford an alternating pressure mattress, a foam mattress of cushion is the next best option. Foam cushions can also be placed onto wheelchairs for added comfort and safety.

• Body Pads and Braces

  Body pads and braces are another alternative way to prevent bed sores. Consider investing in gel or sheepskin pads, which protect elbows and heels from excess pressure and friction.

Post-Op Foods

Although some surgeries prevent patients from eating whole foods, many people assume that they can go back to eating their regular diet soon after leaving hospital. Unfortunately for the foodies out there, this is not the case. It is important to stock up on the following foods, to ensure that your post-op diet does not negatively impact your recovery.

• Foods to Prevent Constipation

  Constipation is a common side effect of a stay in hospital, often due to the pain medication prescribed after invasion surgery. Because walking and being active are triggers for bowl movement, people who are bedridden after an operation can experience continuous constipation. To prevent constipation, stock up on foods that have a high fiber content, including fresh fruit and veggies, whole grains and fiber-rich cereals. Avoid dehydrated and process foods, as well as red meat and sugary foods.

• Fermented Dairy for Gut Bacteria

  Antibiotics are often prescribed after surgery to prevent infection by killing off bacteria. However, your body needs a certain amount of good bacteria to function properly. Supplementing antibiotics with natural probiotics such as yogurt or other fermented dairy products will not only help you digest food, but also improve your immune system.

• Lean Protein to Heal Tissue

  One of the most important proteins used to knit tissue back together is called collagen. The body’s need for collagen after surgery is high, particularly if it needs to repair wounds or incisions. However, red meat has a high saturated fat content, and its ability to cause constipation makes red meat a bad source of protein after surgery. Instead, consider lean protein such as chicken or fish, or vegetarian protein options like tofu, nuts and beans.

Bed Safety

Investing in bed rails or half bed rails is a good way to ensure that a bedridden person remains safely in bed. These small rails are easy to construct and prevent unnecessary injury caused by falling out of bed.

It is important to note that every surgery is different, and thus every person’s post-op experience and rehab supply list is different. For a more detailed list of the supplies you might need after a surgery, don’t hesitate to contact us at 954 484 7599.