(Newswire.net — April 30, 2020) —
The current COVID-19 pandemic in most parts of the United States resulted in the mandatory temporary delay of elective surgical procedures. Consequently, with the exception of pregnant women, the vast majority of patients won’t enjoy a significant opportunity to plan ahead for their surgeries at this time. In most states, medical facilities currently only perform absolutely essential procedures, such as life saving trauma surgeries following accidents, violence, and unplanned medical crises (like strokes and heart attacks). Medical administrators seek to conserve scarce resources by implementing these restrictions.
Yet during this challenging period, how might patients prepare for surgery during the pandemic? Do any measures offer these individuals the opportunity to improve their prospects for a successful outcome? Several medical experts have offered some helpful suggestions:
Maintain a Healthy Diet And Lifestyle
During the pandemic, anyone anticipating an upcoming surgical procedure should make efforts to eat nutritious, regular meals. Pursuing a healthy lifestyle by adhering to your physician’s recommendations holds great value at this time. Consider discussing any concerns about your lifestyle with your healthcare provider. For example, experts urge pregnant women to refrain from drinking alcohol or using illicit substances. These activities might harm an unborn child.
Invest in Meaningful Personal Relationships
The COVID-19 pandemic causes many surgical patients to feel anxious. Yet Dr. Amy Bowers, a clinical psychologist, strongly recommends taking steps to maintain healthy personal relationships as a component of mental health at this time. Keep in touch with family members. Even if you only communicate by telephone, you’ll help cultivate important personal relationships.
Adhere to Social Distancing Policies
Some medical authorities caution expectant mothers they should adhere stringently to social distancing measures. Remaining at home as much as possible prior to an anticipated surgery or medical procedure proves advantageous. Taking this precaution helps reduce the risk of contracting Novel Coronavirus.
Prepare For Post-Op Video Visits
As you prepare for an upcoming medical procedure, spend a little time planning your post-operative recovery environment. In the case of new parents, it may prove helpful to implement video conferencing from a home computer at this time. Instead of visiting your physician in person frequently after the arrival of an infant, it may prove possible to schedule some meetings remotely using available computer technology. Taking this step allows you to reduce your household’s risks of exposure to coronavirus.
Stay Engaged in Daily Pursuits
Many surgical patients discover health benefits concentrating on important daily activities. Performing volunteer services (like sewing cloth face masks) helps some individuals retain focus and interest in life, even while confined to home during the pandemic. This type of charitable activity may also help a patient and family members alleviate worry and stress about an upcoming surgical procedure.
Planning For Optimal Outcomes During Pandemics
It also makes sense to closely consider your circumstances during (and immediately after) surgery. Patients should follow their surgeons’ recommendations concerning the best surgery suite, for instance. Medical facilities with a high number of coronavirus cases may not pose the optimal locations for certain types of surgeries, for example. It may prove helpful to ask your surgeon for a recommendation about the most suitable place to obtain an upcoming surgical procedure.
Responding Effectively to The Coronavirus
Pregnant women who don’t require a C-section for medical reasons might choose to explore the option of delivering a baby at home with the assistance of a midwife. Unfortunately, due to the strain placed on medical infrustracture during the coronavirus pandemic, this alternative may not prove feasible in every place, however. Check with your physician well in advance to determine the best course of action for you. By planning carefully for an upcoming medical procedure or surgery, surgeons and their patients help minimize risks and optimize peace of mind.