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Going into the hospital for any diagnostic procedure that is an outpatient surgery can seem daunting. There are many adults who have never gone “under the knife” and the thought of having to have a procedure that has to put a person to sleep can seem like a tough situation to be in. I recently had a dilation and curettage (D & C) due to having a thick endometrium and uterine fibroids and it was quite an ordeal. I am more than willing to share what I learned from that experience with all of you.
If you or you are TTC like me, there may be certain procedures ordered by your health care provider that may utilize anesthesia. It is best to go in to your outpatient surgery being mindful of what has to happen. Any hospital or care clinic worth its salt will provide you with the best care possible and ensure that you are comfortable before, during, and after your procedure. Read on to learn five tips that helped me through my outpatient procedure.
A. Bring a helpful partner. It is important to have your partner or a friend be with you through the duration of your time in the hospital. Keep that person up to speed with the length of the time your procedure will take, and even if they will need to pick up pain medications for you. Have your helpful person be prepared to stay with you for the rest of the day and maybe even a portion of the next day. Be sure that your helpful person is able to drive you from the hospital and can help you through a time when you are in pain and vulnerable.
B. Allow yourself 2-3 days to prepare and recover. Before you go to have your procedure, give yourself time to prepare for your incapacitation and rehabilitation. Some of that may include securing a sitter for your children and/or pets, completing household chores, and etc. Depending upon your reaction to anesthesia, your tolerance to pain, and if your are prescribed narcotics, it is best to allow your body time for rest and recovery.
C. Bring an overnight bag. Your hospital or clinic should give you list of things to bring with you to your procedure and a list of items that she be left at home. However, it is a great idea to bring a duffel bag to carry a case for your glasses, a blanket, small pillow, books and, phone charger. Also, have space in your bag for snacks for after your surgery. The hospital or clinic may provide you with a small, plastic bag to keep your street clothes and shoes in during your surgery. However, that is not always the case.
D. Bring a list of medications and procedures. Trust me, you will be asked to give an account of all the medications that you are currently taking and all previous surgeries. Have a list either in a notebook or on your phone of your current medications with dosage instructions and a list of previous procedures. It may be difficult to remember these things with all the preparation that is going on so having a list will make is easier for you.
E. Advocate for yourself. It is important to know the procedure that you are having and the reasons thereof. Be sure that you are knowledgeable of what tests results may reveal and when those results will be made available for your to discuss with your physician. Discuss with your doctor any concerns or reservations that you may have to deem if this procedure is necessary to your plan of care and health care goals. Know all of the facts concerning your condition and be able to make an informed decision.
As you look towards having your your outpatient surgery, use the aforementioned tips to ensure that you are prepared. Have a trusted friend to support you during this time, allow yourself time to recover, have your necessities in an overnight bag, bring a list of your medications and previous procedures. Also, be prepared to advocate for yourself. You are worth it and I hope that your procedures reveal favorable results.
