Free Surgery Recovery Readiness Checklist

How to Use This Checklist

This checklist is designed to help you prepare systematically for surgery and recovery. It's based on real experience and focuses on practical preparation that goes beyond what medical teams typically cover.

Remember: This is a guide, not medical advice. Always follow your healthcare team's specific instructions and ask them about anything you're unsure about.

Timing: Start working through this list as soon as you know surgery is scheduled. Some items need weeks of preparation.

🏥 Before Surgery (2-4 Weeks Prior)

Medical Preparation

Get all pre-op requirements completed

Blood work, imaging, medical clearances - don't wait until the last minute
Understand your procedure thoroughly

Ask for detailed explanation, risks, benefits, alternatives, and recovery timeline
Get second opinion if recommended

Especially for major procedures or if you have concerns
Prepare questions for your surgical team

Ask about surgeon's experience, success rates, typical complications

Build Your Support Team

Identify your primary advocate

Someone who can attend appointments and speak up when you can't
Arrange post-surgery caregiving

At least first 1-2 weeks, possibly longer depending on procedure
Set up meal support

Friends, family, or meal delivery services for first few weeks
Arrange childcare/pet care

For surgery day and recovery period

Practical Preparation

Arrange time off work

Plan for longer than minimum recommended - better to return early than struggle
Handle financial planning

Understand insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, disability benefits
Prepare legal documents

Medical power of attorney, advance directives if needed

🎒 Hospital Packing (1 Week Before)

💡 Pro Tip

Pack like you're moving in, not visiting. Comfort items are just as important as necessities.

Essential Comfort Items

Your own pillows and blankets

Familiar comfort items help with sleep and emotional stability
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes

Button-front tops, elastic waistbands, slip-on shoes
Personal care items

Favorite toiletries, lip balm, lotion, gentle shampoo

Entertainment & Connection

Electronics with long extension cords

Laptop, tablet, phone, chargers - outlets aren't always convenient
Download entertainment content

Movies, audiobooks, podcasts, music - hospital wifi can be unreliable
Photos or meaningful items

Things that remind you who you are beyond being a patient

📝 Day of Surgery

Bring your advocate

Someone who can ask questions and take notes when you can't
Confirm procedure details

Double-check that everyone understands what's being done
Ask about pain management plan

Understand what to expect and how to communicate about pain
Get clear discharge instructions

Before you're discharged, make sure you understand all care instructions

🏠 Recovery at Home (First 2 Weeks)

Important Reminder

Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. Your only job is to heal - everything else can wait.

Physical Care

Follow medication schedule exactly

Set alarms, ask for help tracking if needed
Watch for warning signs

Know when to call your doctor vs. when to go to ER
Move as recommended, rest as needed

Balance activity with rest - pushing too hard can set you back

Emotional & Mental Health

Accept help gracefully

This isn't the time to prove your independence
Stay connected but set boundaries

Let people know how they can best support you
Expect emotional ups and downs

Recovery affects emotions too - this is normal
Keep a recovery journal

Track progress, note concerns, celebrate small wins

🌱 Long-term Recovery (Weeks 3+)

Set realistic expectations

Recovery takes months, not weeks - and that's normal
Develop new routines gradually

Build new habits that support your changed life
Address ongoing challenges

Don't suffer in silence - seek help for persistent issues
Consider ongoing support

Therapy, coaching, or support groups for long-term adjustment
Celebrate your progress

Acknowledge how far you've come - recovery is an achievement

Remember

This checklist is a guide based on real experience, not medical advice. Your recovery will be unique to you. Trust your instincts, communicate with your healthcare team, and be patient with yourself. You're stronger than you know.