Post Operative Instructions

On leaving the centre, you must be accompanied by a responsible adult, who may either
drive you home or accompany you home in a taxi, this person should stay with you for the first
24 hours. It is recommended that you do not get up unattended as you may require some
assistance.

Anesthetics and sedatives may disturb your judgment and coordination for several hours. Rest
quietly at home for the balance of the day.

You may experience some muscular aches in your back and neck area and! or a sore throat or
stuffy nose following a general anesthetic. These symptoms are not serious and will disappear
in a short time.

Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs for 48 hours.

Do not sign or enter into any legal contract for 24 hours.

Take 3 big breaths every hour until bedtime and move your feet around.

You may resume your normal diet; however, eating a light diet for the rest of the operative day
will reduce the chance of post operative nausea. (i.e.: meat, cheese, eggs, soy)

Apply ice to the operative area for 10 minutes every hour (while awake) for 24-48 hours to help
decrease swelling. Do not put ice directly in your skin to prevent frostbite. A bag of frozen
vegetables usually moulds nicely to the operative area.

Take your medication as prescribed. Pain medication is taken only as needed. You should not
be operating a motor vehicle while taking narcotic pain medication.

A nurse from daycare surgery unit will call you the day after your surgery to answer any
questions. If you have any problems or concerns regarding post-operative signs or symptoms
please contact your surgeon.