If you recently had bariatric surgery or decided to have bariatric surgery, congratulations! This is a big step in your life and it will lead you to a healthier future. Over time, you can expect rapid weight loss and increased physical capabilities.

However, there are things you should know immediately after bariatric surgery. The postoperative care of bariatric surgery is absolutely paramount to ensure that you have a quick and comfortable recovery.

NOTE: These instructions may not be the exact instructions we give you the day you are discharged from the hospital. Use this article as a guide.

Bariatric Surgery Postoperative Nursing Care – Discharge Day
On the day you are discharged, you will be given a list of instructions to follow. These are some of the postoperative care instructions that you will be given.

Instructions

Take the following vitamins daily:
Chewable multivitamin with iron
An additional chewable multivitamin of calcium (1500 mg) + vitamin D (800 IU)
For women of reproductive age who have menstrual periods: 2 Bariatric Advantage chewable iron tablets
Women of reproductive age should continue to take iron supplements until the onset of menopause.
Take only one vitamin at a time, with at least 10 minutes between vitamins.
Do not take the extra calcium and the extra iron supplement at the same time.
Drink water throughout the day, preferably through a straw.
Take protein supplements according to your surgeon’s instructions.

Activity restrictions

• You are allowed to drive, walk, and go up and down stairs as soon as you feel like you can.
• Do not lift more than 10 pounds until cleared by your doctor (usually after 2-3 weeks)
• The shower is fine, as long as it doesn’t disturb the incisions.
• Do not swim until the incisions have healed.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking pain relievers.

Additional restrictions

• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers cannot be taken unless approved by your doctor. Acetaminophen (Tylenol or generic) is allowed. Prescription opioid medications are also allowed.
• Donating blood is not allowed until your doctor gives explicit approval.
• In case of the following complications, contact your surgical provider:
• Fever over 101 F
• Bouts of vomiting that last more than 4 hours.
• Diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours.
• Abdominal pain that lasts more than 4 hours.

If you have to go to the emergency room for any reason, be sure to let them know that you have had bariatric surgery; do not allow them to insert a stomach tube.
Learn more about life after gastric sleeve surgery!

If you are looking for gastric bypass surgery in Delhi NCR or any type of bariatric surgery, Dr. Sanjay is here to help. Schedule a consultation today!