Post-ALIF Care-Giver Needs Info

N

Nitai

New member
My Wife is having ALIF (front & back) surgery this morning here in San Diego. In the past week, I have tried to do all that I can to prepare for the period when she exits the O-R. I am informed that she will be in hospital for 3 to 4 days. Thereafter, I will seek the doctor's recommendation that she be placed in what I have come to call a "half-way house." As I see it, she will need substantial care for about 1 to 2 weeks ... maybe more. She is 64. Once she is released from the half-way house" (I think it's actually an assisted living facility) then I plan to have a certified nurse come to our apartment 4 hours each day for about a month. What have I missed? Any recommendations? As I see it, for the first month or 2 she will need very careful care-giving. I do not want to mess up any of the surgery. Your thoughts will be deeply appreciated.
 
Hi, it sounds like you are a very concerned and giving husband. I had back surgery also and one thing I can think of is a shower chair, so she does not have to get in and out of the tub, or stand too long in the shower, as this can be hard on a person. A nice long robe or gown is easy to get on and walk around in, non slip slipper socks, a stand beside her bed with her meds, a pitcher of water, and anything she may need and not have to get up for constantly. Things for her to keep her mind and hands busy since she will be laid up for awhile. Books, magazines, any crafts she likes to do, movies, and if possible, making sure she gets outside when it is nice out, in the fresh air. That always helps a person recuperate faster. You have probably thought of alot of these, but this is what I can think of right now. Please come back if you have any more concerns.
 
good ideas kasey. but i just wanted to let you know berto that there IS a really great 'back boards" forum on this HB site(right below this forum in the 'Bs " section) that has alot of very experienced people who have either dealt with the post op stuff from their own back surgeries of various degrees or are kind of contemplating it too? these are really nice and caring people who i am certain could give you really good info like kasey just did here too. once you have personally had to go theru certain types of surgeries yourself, you REALLY do gain alot of insight and experience like nothing else could possibly prepare you for. good luck with the surgery for your wifes back problems and the overall healing process too, for BOTH of you. FB
 
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