 |
||||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|||||||
 |
||||||||
Questions to Ask
Surgery. It is a scary word that can keep us up at night tossing and turning. Probably the biggest concerns about surgery are the unknowns—what will the outcome be and will I be OK?
Most often when surgery is scheduled, you’ll have time to gather your thoughts and ask pertinent questions before going into the operating room. Naturally, this isn’t the case with life-threatening emergencies—that’s when you hope and pray for on-the-spot decisions and fast action.
But when there is time, it’s important to remember that our involvement in the process is crucial. We can’t go in with blinders on.
From the moment your physician/surgeon suggests surgery, bring out a notebook and start asking questions. You’ll probably have some concerns right there in the office, and it’s a good idea to take some time thinking at home, returning later with more questions. You might send a copy of your list to all your doctors, allowing them the time to go over everything before your next visit. Remember, you have every right to ask as many questions as you want, and you definitely are entitled to a thorough explanation. Never let medical personnel intimidate you or brush you aside. In fact, you’ll notice most doctors and nurses will show more respect when you’re an active participant.
Here are some questions to ask:
Why do I need the surgery? What’s the problem and situation at hand? Make sure you understand how the proposed procedure fits in with your diagnosis.
What’s going to happen? Ask the doctor to explain the surgical procedure in layman’s terms. Have him or her draw a picture or diagram if necessary. How long will the surgery take? Will you be an inpatient at the hospital or an outpatient there or at the doctor’s office or clinic?
Are there alternatives to surgery? Is there something else that can be tried before scheduling surgery? What if you don’t have the surgery? What will you gain or lose by not having the procedure now or later?
What are the benefits and risks? What will you gain from going through all this? How long will the benefits last? Will you need to have the procedure repeated? Risk is always a factor. There might be infection, too much bleeding, swelling, soreness or reaction to anesthesia. Be aware of all possible scenarios.
Where can I get a second opinion? Not only is this a good idea, most insurance health plans require patients to get a second opinion with non-emergency procedures. If your plan doesn’t require a second opinion, ask about getting one anyway. The insurer may or may not pay for it. Just remember, it’s your right, and any doctor who grumbles about it or makes you feel uneasy needs a reminder about patients’ rights.
What kind of experience does the surgeon have? You should choose someone who has been thoroughly trained with the procedure and has plenty of experience.
What kind of anesthesia will be given? There are three types: Local anesthesia numbs just a small area of tissue where a minor procedure is to be done. Regional anesthesia affects a larger (but still limited) part of the body. Spinal and epidural anesthesia are examples. General anesthesia affects the entire body and makes the person unconscious. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you, asking about risks and possible complications.
What’s the recovery period? What should you expect immediately after surgery, during the first 24 hours, the following week and month? How long will you be in the hospital? Will new medications be prescribed? What supplies and equipment will you need at home? What about visiting nurses and physical therapy? What precautions, such as limits on walking and lifting, should you take? How soon can you return to work or school, or go on the road in your RV? When is your follow-up appointment?
What are the costs? This is something to be aware of before surgery. Go over everything with the medical staff at the surgeon’s office. Call your insurance company if you have any doubts or need things explained. Know what’s covered and what you’re expected to pay.
As I’ve recommended before, keep this kind of information in some sort of file. I have mine in a three-ring notebook that we take right into the doctor’s office or hospital. We use those nifty plastic protective sheets for keeping in order things like lab and tests results and a list of my medications. Our research notes on particular health problems, diagnoses, various procedures, and other information are filed in the back. We also have a section for questions (like the surgery list), along with the doctors’ comments.
This might sound a bit more involved than one would like, but it’s really a very easy and convenient way to manage your health care once you get started. All it takes is a little time. You’re certainly worth it!