The idea of facing any surgical procedure, regardless how minor or major the procedure, is an idea that frightens many of us. From the moment we are told that we need surgery, we begin to wonder of many things including how this surgery will affect our lives, our family and our daily routine. Here are some common tips that will help you mentally prepare for the ordeal of surgery.
The most important thing you should do when you find out that you need surgery is to get a second opinion. When the doctor tells you that you need to have surgery, you will probably begin to feel a sense of panic. You may believe that the doctor has overlooked something before deciding that surgery is the best solution. It is a good idea to see another doctor and have another series of tests ran to be sure that the initial diagnosis is correct.
If the second doctor also tells you that surgery is the best option, then you should begin to feel slightly more at ease. However, there is still the frightening idea that a surgeon is going to put you on a table and slice your body open. In order to help to calm those understandable fears, ask your doctor to thoroughly explain the procedure to you, and to your closest next of kin, or closest friend, so that they can do their best to assure you that your surgery will in the end, help you to feel better.
Your doctor will most likely advise you on procedures to follow before the operation. Your doctor will probably tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the surgery. When I had my last shunt replacement surgery nearly 15 years ago, the doctor told me not to eat or drink anything past midnight the night before, so I made sure that I ate and drank plenty before midnight came around.
On the day of the procedure, be sure you arrive at the hospital in advance of the time the doctor tells you. Also remember to express any fears, anxieties, or other emotions that you may be feeling about the procedure. Part of an easy procedure is displacing those fears so that your energies are concentrated on healing after the surgery.
After the surgery, you may require a short hospital stay for further tests and observation. During the hospital stay, surround yourself with family and friends who will help to keep your spirits up. Use this time to tell your doctor how you are feeling, and ask any questions about your follow-up care.
Hopefully, this article will help you to prepare for surgery, and also make you more relaxed about the procedure itself, along with any follow-up treatment.
