|
If you can afford it, consider hiring a private-duty nurse. But even with staff nurses, you or the person with you, should expect decent and timely responses to reasonable requests and questions. Remember that the hospital staff is often over-worked, and, complaining too often or too aggressively about minor delays and inconveniences may backfire, and convince the staff that you're a malcontent. These questions may help persuade the staff to follow through on crucial steps in your care. - Did you wash your hands? Studies suggest that many nurses and doctors fail to follow this essential practice. If you don't see the person wash her or his hands with soap, or don gloves before touching you, politely ask whether she or he has done so.
- When can I walk? Walking as soon as possible after surgery helps reduce the risk of potentially dangerous blood clots in the legs. Ask your nurse - or a friend or relative - to help you take a stroll. If you're overweight or have varicose veins, ask for special elastic stockings or other compressive devices to wear during your recovery.
- Do I still need the catheter? The risk of urinary-tract infection increases significantly if the urinary catheter is left in place for more than two or three days. If you're still using a catheter 48 hours after surgery, find out whether it should be removed. If you start feeling urinary discomfort, ask your nurse to check whether the catheter is clogged. And tell your nurse if your intravenous (IV) line starts leaking or if you develop pain or swelling in your arm.
- Where's my spirometer? Lung-strengthening exercises, using a device called an incentive spirometer, can reduce the risk or pneumonia after major surgery. If your nurse doesn't give you one or doesn't teach you how to use it, ask your doctor about it.
| 
