Incision Care

• Carefully keep your incision clean and dry until the staples or sutures are removed
• Follow your doctor's instructions on bathing and showering.
• If your incision gets wet, simply pat it dry with a soft, clean towel.
• Report any increased swelling, drainage, or changes in your incision that worsen during the recovery process.

Medications & Diet

• Take all medications as directed.
• Report any side effects to your doctor.
• Consult your doctor before taking any medications that he/she did not prescribe.
• Maintain a healthy diet while on mediations.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Be aware of the side effects of narcotics (pain medications) during recovery or with activity.

When to Call the Doctor

• Any time you have questions about your condition, care, and activity level.
• Changes with incision, increase in swelling, redness, or drainage that worsen during recovery.
• Persistent pain not relieved by pain medication.
• Side effects from medication.
• Decreased mobility.

Caring for Your New Hip Implant

• Do not cross your legs or allow your knees to come higher than your chest for the first three to four months after surgery.
• Continue the prescribed
  exercises
  during your entire recovery period, and talk to your doctor about developing an exercise program after you fully recover.
• Follow your doctor's check-up plan.