
I expected to be in for 2 days. I was told that if you are a morning op that they get you up to walk the same day. As it happens there were problems and I was in for a week. I live alone and don't have friends and family so asked ex to look after dogs. He slept on a zed bed with them, but had to feed me as well as the dogs. I thought that I was going to be able to do more.
Important stuff.
Get a "helping hand" from amazon. You won't realise just how often you drop things.
You won't be able to bend down to pick up dog bowls. Your hip will dislocate so easily.
You must not turn round quickly. Same reason.
You must not cross your feet over. Same reason.
You must sleep on your back for 12 weeks. Didn't think I could do it so had to sleep with a boulder between my legs!
You won't be allowed to use a bath. I'm still not allowed even now. They insist on a walk in shower. If you don't have one they will supply a stool thingy, can't recall name at the moment. They will insist on strip off wash for 3 months.
You won't be allowed to drive until the surgeon gives you permission. You have to advise your car insurers as you won't be covered after this surgery.
You will be given a list with different requirements as all hospitals are different in their approach. A friend was told to use steps to help and I was told not to use them. I genuinely could not have coped without them. I searched on a disabled site and spent £50 on 2 that are great. I knew I had difficulty getting into and out of the house with my osteo-arthritis. The outside step was a godsend for me. I'm still using it now. The step up into my house is just too steep without the help. I had a downstairs double shower put in years ago for the Collies. But they don't mind me sharing. Its a 12" step up and no way could I have lifted my leg, so again, wouldn't be without the indoor step.
You will probably want to sleep 2 days solid when you get home. Be good to yourself. Listen to your body. Don't be afraid to take your Codeine every 4 hours, don't try to be a hero.