by Amanda Green
Some of us have experienced the unfortunate event when a loved one has been suddenly rushed to the hospital. We worry and anxiously pace as we wait in the waiting room for any news from the doctor. Moments pass and a plethora of thoughts bombard our mind, but we remain optimistic. We think about how the bright surgical lights will focus on our loved one. We think about how long it may take before we talk with them again.
Post-Op
The surgeon makes their way towards you and gives the good news that surgery was successful. You breathe a sigh of relief. You head over to your loved one’s recovery room and watch them sleep. As you stand there, you’re wondering what to say first when they wake up and wonder how they are feeling. Hours pass and your loved one wakes up. You rush over to their side and ask if they need anything. You wonder if they want an extra pillow, some water, or perhaps some food. You call the nurse and they indicate that everything is fine and that a meal will be scheduled later on the day. As the nurse leaves the room, your loved one reaches out to you.
Words of Encouragement
Recuperating from surgery is not easy for a patient. Sometimes it can get overwhelming for them and may hinder a quick recovery. We want to encourage them to stay optimistic during their treatment. Reading a book together, bringing in letters of encouragement, or by simply just spending time with your loved one can be a positive distraction. The hospital takes care of the physical recovery and we take care of the mental fitness. Words of inspiration can boost positivity. “To succeed, we must have the will to succeed, we must have stamina, determination, backbone, perseverance, self-reliance, and faith.” – B.C. Forbes
Musical Healing
An article states that “There’s a belief that music and pain are processed along the same [nerve] pathways.” Music therapy is slowly being integrated into recovery rooms of hospitals. It is said that music therapy can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and the “perception of pain.” Music can even decrease the need for medications that aid patients in dealing with fear and pain. Having a personalized playlist for your loved one can inspire and also relieve them of stress and tension associated with recovery.
Laughter
Doesn’t laughing feel good? Laughter can break a bad mood. Most importantly, it can reduce anger and frustration associated with the path to recovery. Your loved one may feel depressed or angry because they feel pain. We want to lighten up their mood and distract them from the pain they feel. Most recovery rooms have television sets; tune in to something that’s humorous. Laughter can be a powerful painkiller but can also help along the healing process. Laughing can also help avoid depression.
Emotional Support
It’s not always fun bearing the brunt of your loved one’s frustrations. We have to put our minds in a state where we can support both our emotions and the emotions of our loved one that’s recovering from surgery. At times it can get so overwhelming it can lead to an environment that can halt treatment progression. It is recommended to take time for yourself. Take time to relax and rejuvenate. Take a stroll in a park or grab a bite to eat; change your surroundings for a while. By doing so, you will find that it will improve your mood and also gives you time to breathe in some fresh air.
Exercise
A good exercise routine will help maintain a positive attitude. Not only are you the guiding light for your loved one, but they also depend on you to keep things positive when they are feeling down. Exercising can promote circulation and help prepare for the day ahead. Whether you’re assisting them with their physical recovery or encouraging them to stay optimistic during treatment, it is important to always stay positive.
From words of encouragement, healing through music, laughter, and everything in between, always remember to remain optimistic and reassuring for your loved one. Remember, they are recuperating from surgery and feeling tremendous amounts of pain. When you feel overwhelmed and fatigued, take time for yourself. Taking the time will help improve your mood and help you refresh, and in turn, promote a favorable environment for quick recovery.
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