Preparing for Surgery
Preparing and packing for knee replacement surgery involves more than just the patient. In the week before surgery, designate a place in your home for the things you will be taking with you to the hospital. Make a separate spot for things you’ll need if you are leaving your home to stay in the patient’s house after surgery.
Keep Yourself Busy
While in the hospital, patients are typically not up to long conversations. You will have an opportunity to turn the waiting time into productive personal time. For example:
- Bring something to read
- Catch up on your correspondence
- Handle paperwork such as organizing files and paying bills
- Enjoy simple hobbies like knitting or crocheting
- Consider bringing a laptop computer, but check with the hospital first regarding its policy on electronic devices
Take Care of Yourself
- Bring a pillow, a small blanket, and a sweater or light jacket
- Pack a bag with toiletries and a change of clothes
- Wear comfortable shoes and pack nonskid slippers and a pair of socks
- Don't forget your medication; order refills if necessary
- Take your eyeglasses and/or a case and solution for contact lenses
- Pack some nonperishable snacks
Pack the Paperwork
- Medical information—Bring a list of all medications, nutritional supplements, allergies, and health conditions for both you and the patient; include names and phone numbers of all physicians
- Legal documents—If you and/or the patient have a Durable Power of Attorney and/or Living Will, bring copies along
- Identification—Bring a photo ID for yourself and keep your loved one's identification with you
- Insurance information—Bring insurance/prescription cards and contact names/numbers for your loved one and yourself
- Printed material—Bring along all the paperwork related to the surgery
- Phone list—Bring a list of phone numbers and a pre-paid phone card for long distance calls, since cell phone usage is often forbidden in hospitals
Leave Valuables at Home
Thefts take place in even the most secure hospitals. You will need some cash for meals and possibly for parking, so bring enough cash to cover expenses.
Prepare for Your Stay
If you are temporarily moving in with the patient after joint replacement surgery, you'll need to pack sufficient clothing and personal supplies for the expected length of your stay. Be sure to pack the essentials, and remember that you'll be temporarily in charge of the laundry and the shopping. You can pick up additional supplies at the grocery store as needed, and if you pack washable clothing, you'll be one cycle away from clean clothes anytime.
Make a Checklist
Create a list of items to pack and check off the items on the list as you pack. A checklist can be very helpful for caregivers who cannot easily return home to pick up forgotten items.
Next: Communication Tips