Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding precautions to be observed during immediate phase of post shoulder replacement surgery as follows:
- Compliance with use of sling: Your surgeon could recommend use of sling for a few weeks to support the shoulder during the immediate phase of post shoulder replacement surgery. Sling helps to reduce the pull on the shoulder joint due to the weight of the limb, supports the joint, and contributes to pain control. Observe compliance with use of sling for the recommended duration to better support the surgical shoulder.
- Compliance with antibiotics medications: Your surgeon could recommend a course of antibiotics as a prophylactic measure, to prevent development of any infection. Some individuals might develop an infection during immediate post-surgical period and antibiotics could be prescribed for control of the infection. Observe compliance with intake of the prescribed antibiotic, as ordered, for the scheduled duration of time. Labs could be ordered to adjust the dose of antibiotic medications and to be sure the infection is totally resolved. Observe compliance with the lab draws ordered.
- Compliance with pain killer medications: You could be placed on a lot of pain medications immediately after the surgery. Narcotic pain medications, such as, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and codeine, could be prescribed to achieve better pain control, which can help overall patient wellbeing and improve patient compliance with therapy sessions. Observe compliance with intake of pain medications, as ordered. Do not overuse or abuse the narcotic pain medications, as they have a very high potential for addiction. Keep a count of your narcotic pain medications to prevent any misuse by family and friends. Do not share your narcotic pain medications with any family members or friends.
