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@roma76

I had similar surgery 3 weeks ago. I have stairs so bought a small microwave and small fridge to be in sane floor - very nice! I advise a shower chair and a roll of press ‘n’ seal (like Saran Wrap) since you will need to avoid getting the dressing wet. At the last minute I needed to switch to our guest room bed because ours is too high to sit on, then log roll into a lying position (a maneuver that avoids bending). Smart change. You might check out the bed heights involved. Also a thermal carafe for ice water. You are not allowed to twist but getting things off a nightstand require twisting! I bought a shoebox sized plastic box and kept all my nighttime needs in it next to me on the bed. Meds, notebook to record meds, tissues, chapstick, eye drops, glasses holder, book to read. So helpful to just reach out and it’s there. Finally, same issue with turning on a bedside lamp. Buy a couple of remote switches to keep in the clear box or to tape to the side of the box. One press and your bedside lamp comes on to light the way to the next light switch. Buy some lumbar ice packs with waist strap. Liberal use of ice per Dr directions can get your mom off heavy meds days early. That mini fridge I mentioned has a little ice cube holder that keeps these nice and cold. Buy nightgowns, low cut panties, and housecoats. I could not handle a waistband over my stitches until the third week; lived in nightgowns! I bet she does great! One more thing: bolster size pillows fir the drive and to prop up knees in bed (takes stress off lower back). Amazon has velour covers for 20” decorator pillow inserts—the combo is fabulous!!

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Replies to "I had similar surgery 3 weeks ago. I have stairs so bought a small microwave and..."

@roma76 Those are some great suggestions. Would you be willing to share a bit more? How is your recovery going for you? What is your timeline like for rehab therapy, and when do you expect to follow up with your surgeon? It sounds like you have all of this figured out. How are your pain levels at 3 weeks post op? When do you expect to return to your normal activities?

Keep up the good work!
Jennifer

Thank you so much for all of these ideas. I am making a list and this helps a lot! I especially love the plastic box that would stay next to her in bed. So many things to think about and I am taking notes!