After Surgery

Those scheduled for an outpatient (same-day) surgery will return home the same day as their operation, allowing for greater comfort and a faster return to independence. Advances in anesthesia, rehabilitation, pain management and surgical techniques now make this a safe and convenient option for many patients.

Outpatient surgery can be beneficial in the following cases:

• Hip replacement
• Knee replacement
• Shoulder surgery
• Certain spine surgeries 

Prior to scheduling your procedure, your care team will perform the following to ensure outpatient surgery is the right option for you:

• Evaluate your overall health
• Ensure you have the necessary support at home
• Provide education on mobility, medications and warning signs
• Arrange follow-up care as needed

After any surgery or procedure, patients will only be discharged home if they are medically stable, can safely walk/move with assistance and thoroughly understand the recovery instructions.

Benefits of Outpatient Surgery

There are many possible advantages to outpatient surgery, including time and cost savings. Benefits may include:

• Heal more comfortably: Many patients feel more relaxed and sleep better at home in familiar surroundings, with family support more readily available.
• Faster return to daily routines: Patients often regain independence sooner at home, with structured exercises to help build strength and mobility.
• Lower risk of hospital-related complications: Patients may experience fewer sleep disruptions, less stress and reduced risk of hospital infections.
• Improved pain control and recovery planning: Personalized pain-management plans are provided before discharge, with clear instructions to help you manage medications, activity and wound care.
• Reduced cost: Often lower overall health care expenses with no overnight hospital stay.

Know what to expect while you’re spending time in the hospital after your surgery. Read these tips:

• Managing your pain
• Preventing falls
• Reducing your chance of infection
• Your Hospital Recovery

NEBH Care Transitions Team is a team of registered nurses and licensed social workers who can help you with important decisions that will impact your surgery and aftercare.

Learn more about the care transition process.

Watch video about leaving New England Baptist Hospital and heading home.

After you have met all of your goals, you'll leave the hospital to return home. However, you’ll need to follow specific instructions at home to make sure you stay healthy. Learn about these ways to stay healthy:

• Nutrition recommendations before and after surgery
• Surgical incision care and wound care
• Surgical incision after-care during the summer
• Safe disposal of your prescription medication
• When to call your surgeon

Depending on your specific type of surgery and other factors, you may need to work with a physical therapist or occupational therapist for a period of time. New England Baptist Hospital therapists are experts in their field and will create a customized therapy program to help you heal quickly and safely. Therapy is especially important during joint replacement recovery.