As many in our community prepare for scheduled surgeries this winter and into the new year, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is raising awareness about the importance of planning ahead and utilizing home health services to ensure a safe, successful recovery. Whether undergoing joint replacement, cardiac surgery, abdominal procedures, or other medically necessary operations, thoughtful preparation and professional support can significantly reduce complications and speed the return to daily life.
Preparing Before Surgery: Small Steps, Big Benefits
When a surgery is planned, patients have a valuable opportunity to set themselves up for a smoother, safer recovery. Pemi-Baker encourages individuals and their caregivers to consider the following preparation strategies:
- Home Safety Check: Remove loose rugs, improve lighting, and create clear walkways. If mobility will be limited, set up a temporary living space on one floor to avoid stairs.
- Support System Planning: Identify a family member, friend, or neighbor who can help with meals, errands, and transportation during the first days or weeks post-surgery.
- Medical Readiness: Fill prescribed medications in advance, prepare ice packs or wound supplies if appropriate, and schedule follow-up appointments before the procedure.
- Equipment Prep: Items like walkers, shower chairs, raised toilet seats, or reachers may be recommended. Obtaining these ahead of time can prevent unnecessary strain or falls.
- Home Health Referral: Ask your surgeon or primary care provider about a home health referral to Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. Having this in place before surgery ensures services can begin promptly once you return home.
These simple steps can ease stress, support healing, and reduce the likelihood of setbacks after discharge.
Expert Care at Home: What Pemi-Baker’s Team Provides
Following surgery, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health delivers skilled, individualized care designed to help patients regain strength, mobility, and independence:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): Nurses monitor vital signs, manage wound care, review medications, watch for infection or complications, and communicate closely with the patient’s physician.
- Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs): LNAs assist with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and safe transfers, helping patients maintain comfort and dignity while healing.
- Physical Therapists: PTs develop customized exercise and mobility plans to restore strength and balance, reduce pain, and support a safe return to walking and daily activities.
- Occupational Therapists: OTs help patients relearn or adapt everyday tasks—like cooking, bathing, or getting in and out of bed—while recommending adaptive equipment and home modifications to improve independence.
Together, this interdisciplinary team offers hands-on care, education, and encouragement, empowering patients to progress confidently at home rather than struggling alone or returning to the hospital.
Proven Results: Reduced Falls and Fewer Hospital Readmissions
Research consistently shows the benefits of home health services after surgery. According to national Medicare data, patients who receive home health care experience up to a 25% reduction in hospital readmissions compared to those without post-acute support. Additionally, structured physical therapy and home safety interventions can reduce fall risk by nearly 30%, a critical factor since falls are one of the leading causes of injury and rehospitalization for older adults after surgery.
By providing early mobility guidance, medication oversight, and vigilant monitoring, home health services help patients recover more safely—right in the comfort of their own home.
A Partner in Healing
“Our goal is to give patients the confidence, education, and support they need to heal well,” said Gretchen Smith, RN, Clinical Manager. “The transition home can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and compassionate professional care, recovery can be smoother, safer, and far less stressful.”
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health encourages anyone anticipating surgery—or caring for a loved one who is—to speak with their healthcare provider about a home health referral.
Don’t wait to ask about how our compassionate staff can help your loved ones. To qualify for home health care, a person must have a physician’s order and demonstrate a need for skilled care that can be safely provided at home. Our focus is on providing comfort to patients and support to families, with our team available 24/7 to address any concerns. The call is free, and our professionals are ready to assist you! Call us today at 603-536-2232 to learn more.
