@garytpickens
I had L3-L5 surgery on Friday, 8/2. Extreme pain (11-12 out of 10/off the charts at first and then brought under control throughout the day). I was kept overnight since it was an invasive surgery. I am a 55 year old female with a 15 year old son, cats and dogs. I have no family but my ex-husband is helping me.

I prepared before surgery to have multiple grabbers, back scratchers, cane, bed assist bar that slips under mattress to help maneuver in and get out of bed. I also bought from Amazon a wiping tool since you can’t twist (you wrap tissue around one end and when done you press the other end to release the tissue into the toilet.

Have a tray table to eat meals when sitting in bed. The hospital sent me home with a walker to help with balance while walking. It is good to have throw rugs picked up off floors and have pill sorters since you get a lot of medication to take throughout the day (am/pm/bedtime). I also bought a bed wedge to prop me up when sitting/lying down and lots of pillows for head/back/under knees.

Set up room and walkways to move through the house easily. Make sure to have everything needed on one level to avoid stairs. Be prepared to do sponge baths because you can’t shower for a couple weeks. I am also planning to use dry shampoo for my hair. Have clothing and step in shoes that are easy to put on/take off.

If you have pets, be careful when maneuvering around the house so you don’t trip/fall. Have someone care for cats/dogs (feeding/water bowls/walking).

Good luck with everything.