Being around a loved one before and after they go through surgery is a challenging time. Many emotions are running wild for all involved and there’s uncertainty around success, recovery and potential long-term impacts. But one of the most important things for patients and those surrounding them is being there to support each other throughout the journey, no matter how long or arduous. You may be unsure of the best way to go about offering your support in their recovery phase. Whether you live with the person or you’re a bit further away – how can you support them after their operation?
Create a comfortable environment for them
Recovering is always easier in a comfortable or familiar environment, so do what you can to make their recovery as comfortable as possible. This could be bringing personal items or home comforts to the recovery ward if they’re likely to stay in hospital for a while, or setting up their living space at home to make it easier and more comfortable after being discharged. Recovery is necessary but it can be boring and frustrating at times, so make sure they can watch their favourite movies or TV shows while they rest.
Be there to listen
Going through surgery can be an emotionally draining process, particularly with fears and anxieties of long-term consequences and risks. It can also be a painful time, so be there to listen to what they need or have to say. Bottling up emotions is possibly the worst thing to do, especially if recovery isn’t going to plan, but ensure that you are there to listen because this will help your loved one to get things off their chest. If there was an issue with the surgery, perhaps start to help them look into hospital negligence claims so they can potentially receive compensation.
Take things at their pace
It’s important never to rush a patient recovering from surgery. Go along at their pace and support them when challenges arise along the way. When the little recovery wins do start to come, celebrate them and start to think ahead to the next one – but don’t try too much at once. Some people are over-eager to recover and end up putting their health and wellbeing at risk. Try to help your loved one remain realistic but don’t put a dampener on their ambitions.
Seeing a loved one struggle after surgery can be distressing, but with the right support and care, they should be back to their best in no time. Each individual will want to recover differently so try to give them exactly what they need to make life more comfortable.
