Are you on the waiting list for an operation? If so, counting down the days until your first procedure under general anaesthetic can feel rather daunting. When you’ve never had surgery before, it’s tricky to relate to anyone else’s experience!
Luckily, there are several steps you can take to make the process feel more approachable. With some careful self-preparation and slight changes to your lifestyle before the procedure, you’ll boost your chances of an easier time. We’ve outlined a few below.
Attend your pre-surgery appointments
If you’ve been asked to go to the hospital for a consultation or any other type of pre-operation checks, it’s important to attend. These appointments typically include checks on your medical history, physical examinations, and signing consensual agreements for the procedure.
Delaying or cancelling this appointment could lead to lengthy delays, leaving you at risk of becoming even more unwell with your existing condition.
Missing an appointment also puts a lot of strain on health services. In the year leading up to 2022, the NHS reported almost 7.5 million missed outpatient appointments. Even if you’re unable to attend for reasons beyond your control, it’s important to call your healthcare team in advance and reschedule.
Make lifestyle changes, if necessary
You’ll need to be in the best possible shape before your operation.
This not only increases the chances of everything going smoothly during the procedure but makes a speedy and full recovery much more likely. Some of the lifestyle changes that could be recommended might include:
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing your alcohol consumption
- Exercising more
- Improving your diet
- Following specific treatment plans
Before you attend your first pre-op appointments, it’s worth trying to live as healthily as you can. If there’s anything obvious you can change now, don’t wait until your doctor tells you to.
Prepare yourself emotionally
Many people find the prospect of an operation quite stressful. It’s so important to prioritise your emotional wellbeing and mental health at this time.
Use your own toolbox to keep your stress under control. If you’re unsure, it could be worth speaking with your GP to find management techniques that work best for you.
When you have concerns or fears that you can’t stop thinking about, it’s important to be honest about them. If you’ve been worried about the number of patients making amputation claims against the NHS, for example, your healthcare team can reassure you. Ask about support groups, mentorship, or counselling programmes.
Make practical arrangements
It’s worth knowing that you won’t be allowed to drive a car for at least 24 hours after your operation – but most people don’t feel ready for a few days. If you’re expecting to stay in hospital overnight, you should take a little bag with the following belongings:
- Basic toiletries
- ID and insurance documents
- Phone charger
- A change of clothes
Before you go in for surgery, make sure you’ve got some transportation arranged to get you home safely. Try to get picked up from the hospital, especially if your operation will leave you in some pain and discomfort afterwards.
Finally, it’s a good idea to change your home setup before the surgery to aid your recovery, too. Make a comfortable resting area, ensuring that all the essentials – like a glass of water and your phone charger – are within easy reach.