Before discussing the steps on how to take a shower after hip prosthesis surgery, it’s important to understand some of the precautions to take:
1. Wait for permission from the surgeon
The first thing you should do is wait for permission from your surgeon before taking a shower. Typically, the surgeon will give clearance depending on the individual case, but it’s usually after two weeks.
2. Cover the surgical site
Once you have permission to take a shower, make sure to keep the surgical site clean and covered. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to change the dressing or wound coverings, which should always be kept dry to prevent infection.
3. Avoid hot baths or swimming
It is advised not to take hot and soaking baths for at least six weeks after the surgery. Take short showers instead of soaking in the bath. Also, avoid swimming in hot tubs, pools, or open water.
4. Use a shower chair or bench
To ensure that you do not slip and fall in the shower, use a shower chair or bench.
Now that we have covered the precautions let us discuss some essential steps to take while taking a shower after hip prosthesis surgery:
1. Prep the shower area
Before taking a shower, make sure that the bathroom is clean, and there are no tripping hazards. Make sure that the room is heated to a comfortable temperature.
2. Position yourself
One of the essential aspects of taking a shower after hip replacement is standing in the correct position. Stand facing the faucet, place your affected side closest to the wall, rest your non-surgical leg outside of the bathtub or shower, and the surgical leg inside the shower.
3. Use safe movements
When showering, make controlled movements and avoid reaching or bending excessively on the affected side. Use a long-handled sponge or loofah to wash the areas that are not within reach.
4. Use mild soap
Use mild soap or skin cleanser to wash your body because strong chemicals can interact with the surgical site and cause irritation or infection. Avoid using any harsh products like alcohol-based products as they will cause drying of the skin.
5. Keep it brief
It is ideal to keep your showers brief during your healing period. Spend no more than 10 to 15 minutes in the shower to avoid fatigue or dizziness when standing for too long.
6. Dry yourself well
Make sure to dry yourself well after the shower with a clean towel. Gently pat the incision dry and do not rub the towel against the healing wound.
Hip replacement surgery is a vital procedure that is vital to enhance patients’ quality of life. Taking the necessary precautions during post-operative care is essential to ensure that the surgery is successful in the long term. Showering after hip replacement surgery requires a little extra care and attention, but it does not have to be daunting. With proper preparation and following the steps outlined above, you can get a refreshing shower while keeping your wound safe and clean.