Discharge Instructions for Foot Surgery
What to Expect
It is normal to have the following:
|
Arrange to have an adult drive you home after surgery. If you had general anesthesia, it may take a day or more to fully recover. So, for at least the next 24 hours: Do not drive or use machinery or power tools; do not drink alcohol; and do not make any major decisions.
Diet
-
Start with liquids and light foods (such as dry toast, bananas, and applesauce). As you feel up to it, slowly return to your normal diet.
-
Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water or other nonalcoholic fluids a day.
Call the doctor if you have:
-
Continuous bleeding through the bandage
-
Excessive swelling, increased bleeding, or redness
-
Fever over 100.1°F or chills
-
Pain unrelieved by pain medications
-
Foot feels cold to the touch or numb
-
Increased ache in your leg or foot
-
Chest pain or shortness of breath
-
Anything unusual that concerns you
|
Medications
-
Take all medications as instructed.
-
Take pain medications on time. Do not wait until the pain is bad before taking your medications.
-
Avoid alcohol while on pain medications.
Activity
-
Sit or lie down when possible. Put a pillow under your heel to raise your foot above the level of your heart.
-
Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth. Place it over your bandaged foot for no longer than 20 minutes. Do this 3 time(s) a day.
-
You can drive again in 7 day(s).
-
Wear your surgical shoe at all times unless told otherwise by your health care provider.
-
Use crutches or a cane as directed.
Bandage and Cast Care
-
Do not shower for 48 hours.
-
When you can shower again, cover the bandage or cast with a plastic bag to keep it dry.
-
Remove the bandage after 4 days.
Date Last Reviewed:
2/3/2006
Date Last Modified:
7/9/2002