FAQ - I live on my own: is this a problem?
No. We operate on lots of patients who live on their own.
By the time you are discharged, you will be independently mobile, able to climb a flight of stairs on your own, and able to get in or out of bed.
You may want to move to the downstairs area of your home for a short while, but this would be more out of convenience than necessity.
You should be able to prepare simple meals in your own kitchen, but it would be a good idea to lay in a stock of 'ready meals' or pre-prepared dishes to tide you over the first week or two.
By the third post-operative week, you should be able to go shopping, even if this means using public transport. You may not be able to carry heavy shopping bags, so be modest in terms of your initial purchases! Remember that these days it is possible to shop 'online' and have your groceries delivered. If you are not computer literate, or do not have internet access, maybe a friend or relative can do this for you.
Obviously, friends or family who can help out are an asset, but do not despair if you are all on your own!
The District Nurse can usually visit to remove the surgical clips, redress your wound and advise on how you are doing.
