Hey Ross, I didn't read all the posts, so if I duplicate anything, please forgive me. I had OHS 15 days ago. Here's a few things that have made life easier for me:
Remove throw rugs or at least watch them very carefully, to prevent falls or tripping
Be prepared with extra throw pillows for the "favorite" chairs. It makes getting up and down a lot easier when the seat is a little higher
My recliner has become my place of rest, day and night. Getting into bed was not the problem- getting back up to an upright position was difficult without putting too much strain on the arms/chest muscles, or wearing out the helpers back!
Gripper footies are great, but watch that they do not cut off circulation around the ankles, if you have swelling, which I do.
My hospital staff told me to only use Dial antibacterial body wash on my incision. Having been a nurse for over 25 years, luckily I knew this one already. Family bought me about 5 bottles, and I use it for shampooing and everything.
Please remind the patient that just because they feel great, they still might need frequent breaks and plenty of rest for the first few weeks. I have found that the days I tend to over do it, is the times I end up having the rough nights.
Also, most of us senior citizens do not like to take pain meds very much. Assure them that taking the recommended pain reliever will not likely cause an addiction, but will make them more comfortable during the early stages of recovery.
Keep visitors to a minimum AND phone calls short!
Hope a few of these help you.
