• If you
have stairs in your home, you may want to arrange
to stay with a friend or sleep downstairs for
the first several days, depending on your activity
restrictions.
• If you
do not have someone who will be around to cook
for you, stock up on recovery foods and treats
like pudding, jello, frozen dinners. Also, cook
your own meals ahead of time and freeze them.
• Have your
laundry taken care of ahead of time.
• Purchase
all of your medications, supplements and dressing
supplies beforehand.
• Have a
thermometer handy.
• Have lots
of movies, books, and magazines available to help
pass time.
• Arrange
for child care and/or pet care during your initial
healing time.
• Have lots
of fluffy pillows on hand. Sometimes body pillows
are nice to have around.
• Stock
up your night stand with all of your essentials
(medications, light, tissues, bottled water, some
crackers, eye glasses, remote control, stereo
or headphones with CDs and phone).
• Have a
nightlight to guide you to the bathroom late at
night.
• Prepare
ice packs or have handy several bags of frozen
peas, raspberries or blueberries.
• Place
anything you may need at hip level so you won’t
have to bend over or reach for things.
• Have a
robe and slippers nearby.