SIOG "What to ask my surgeon?" brochure

DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER. WHAT TO ASK MY SURGEON ?

SIOG Patient Education Brochures for Elderly Patients

MIE 2, Chemin de Balexert 7-9 1219 Châtelaine, Switzerland Email: info@siog.org Website: www.siog.org

PRE OPERATIVE QUESTIONS Do I need to be operated soon?

How soon? Can it wait?

Where will the operation take place?

How many days will I have to be away from home?

Why do I need this operation?

Are there other treatment options, and is this operation the best option for me?

What are the risks, benefits, and possible complications for this operation?

Should I be seen in pre-operative anesthesia clinic?

Should I abstain from alcohol? Should I abstain from tobacco?

Am I entitled to see a geriatrician before my surgery or during my hospital stay?

Will I need any special diet prior to surgery?

What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet, and home care?

Do you anticipate that I will spend some time at short-term rehab before going home?

Do you anticipate that I will need assistance at home once I am discharged?

What kinds of activities will I be limited in during my recovery?

Is there a way to contact you or someone on your team if I have additional questions?

I am the primary caregiver for my spouse. Will I be able to continue my caregiver role during my postop recovery?

What legal documents do I need to have signed prior to my surgery, and are there any legal documents that I need to bring with me to the hospital?

SIOG | PATIENTS BROCHURE

OPERATIVE QUESTIONS What type of anesthesia will I receive?

How will the operation be performed?

What is the day of the surgery like?

Where do I go when I arrive at the hospital?

What should I bring with me?

How long will the operation take?

Where will I be when I awake?

What can I expect on the first day?

POST OPERATIVE RECOVERY QUESTIONS Can I see a geriatrician during my hospital stay?

How often will I see my surgeon or the surgical team?

What methods are to used to control pain?

When I can I get up?

What type of exercice is important in the hospital?

What tpe of food should I order?

Is there someome to talk to if I need help or support?

What if I am afraid of a situation at home?

Do you anticipate that I will spend some time at short-term rehab before going home?

What type of help will I need at home whe I leave the hospital?

How many days will I have to be away from home?

DISCHARGE FROM THE HOSPITAL What can I do to help wtih my recovery?

Will I need any special items to care for my surgical site?

When will I see the surgical team?

When will I see my other doctors?

When can I start physical therapy?

Will I be able to climb stairs and sleep in my own bed?

How long before things are back to normal?

SIOG | PATIENTS BROCHURE