Preparing for Surgery
Millions of people undergo surgery each year and it can be a frightening experience. Knowing what to expect can be helpful.
Whether surgery is a planned event or a lightning bolt from the blue, preparation is the best way to alleviate fear.
Information on the Surgery
Ask the doctor questions about the planned surgery:
- What part of the body is involved
- Will the surgery be a complete cure
- How big/long will the incision be
- Is this major or minor surgery
- How long will the hospital stay be
- Will the surgery bring dietary restrictions
- How long will recovery take
Tests
Pre-surgery test are required in most cases. These are the most common ones ordered:
- Blood - these check a number of details including the number of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin levels, electrolyte balance, blood clotting ability and liver function
- Urine Analysis - this will reveal a bladder or kidney infection
- X-Rays - a chest x-ray may be required
- ECG(Electrocardiogram) - this test records heart rhythm and will reveal any abnormalities or irregularities
- Scans - various types of scans may be required such as ultrasound, CAT, PET and MRI. Each examine the internal structure of the body in a different way
Arriving at Hospital
No food or liquids are allowed for 4 to 6 hours before surgery. This is important as the anesthetic overrides several reflex functions including the gag reflex that prevents food and stomach acid from rising up in the throat.
The patient is normally requested to report to the admissions department several hours before the surgery is to take place. The paper work can take some time and evidence of health insurance will be required. An ID bracelet will be attached to the patient with personal details included.
-
How to Become a Home-Based Medical Transcriptionist Free of Cost?
| By Pravin1978 | in General
Home-based medical transcription is a career gaining popularity at the present time. Home-based medical transcript...
-
The Specialty Museums of Washington D.C.
| By Kristie.Leong.M.D | in Americas
Are you looking for an inexpensive learning vacation? Why not spend some time at the specialty museums of Washingto...
-
How to Make Medical Decisions
| By severt101 | in General
Making medical decisions can be a scary thing. There are a few things you should do before making that final decisi...
-
The Nation’s Top 10 Diagnostic Medical Sonography Schools
| By yugosakimi | in College and University
Here is a quick rundown of the top ten ultrasound technician and diagnostic medical sonographer schools in the coun...
-
Medical Jobs: Radiologist
| By tarret | in General
A rewarding career choice for many. As well as a high quality job....
-
Health benefits of custard apples | By resham69 | in General
Custard apple is not only a tasty fruit but has got lot of medicinal properties...
-
Understanding How MRI Works | By Umashankari | in General
MRI has become increasingly popular and has been used to screen high-risk women for cancer. It has also become an i...
-
How Much Should I Weigh? | By juanchavez | in General
Whether you are fat or skinny, tall or short, there are certain weights that are normal for you to be in. Body mass...
-
Mashed Sweet Potatoes for Your Health | By HappyGoLucky | in General
You might find yourself eating sweet potatoes only at Thanksgiving, but after you see what this vegetable contains....
-
Green Smoke Electronic Cigarette Review | By KenZag | in General
The Green Smoke electronic cigarette is quickly becoming a favorite among "vaping" enthusiasts and for go...
-
Freelance Work on the Internet | By Debbie_Roome | in General
Never before have there been so many opportunities for writers. The internet means a person can work for companies ...
-
How to Write Your Life Story | By Debbie_Roome | in General
Everyone has a story to tell, and even if it has a limited audience, it is worth writing down for the generations t...
-
How to Choose Topics to Write About | By Debbie_Roome | in General
One of the biggest problems of writing is choosing what to write about. Although the choice is endless, it can be d...
-
What Editors Hate | By Debbie_Roome | in Job Hunting
Learning to work with editors can be the key to a steady flow of jobs from a newspaper or other publication....
-
8 Tips for Living with a Diabetic Child | By Debbie_Roome | in Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires close monitoring in order to maintain safe sugar levels in the blood....
No comments yet.