Swelling may also make the cast or bandage tight, which will cause more pain and swelling. If you feel that your cast or bandage is too tight, please contact me - I would rather change it than for you to have a problem.
KEEP YOUR BANDAGE DRY. Wounds heal with the fewest problems if they are kept clean and dry. When bathing, protect your bandage in a plastic bag. If your bandage gets wet on the inside, it should be changed, not simply allowed to dry. I would rather change your cast or bandage than risk a problem with your wound.
BRUISING OR BLEEDING is common after surgery. Bandages often become stained with blood on the day of surgery. Bruising often worsens several days after surgery. Bruising or bleeding is usually not a source for concern unless accompanied by steady drainage, worsening pain, or progressive swelling.
HAND THERAPY: (Only as checked off here) _ None until instructed further.
_ Every two hours, do this four times: within your bandage, try to make a strong fist, and then try to fully straighten your fingers.
_ See instructions on the back of this page.
_ You have been given a hand therapy prescription: Call the therapist to schedule an appointment and bring that prescription along with you.
CHANGE YOUR BANDAGE ONLY if I have given you specific instructions to have it changed before I see you.
SMOKING interferes with healing and makes painful problems more painful. Problems after surgery are more likely if you smoke, especially if you keep smoking after surgery. DON'T SMOKE!
INFECTION should be suspected if there is redness, pain or swelling that gets worse over the course of the day or night, despite elevating the hand. Infection is uncommon less than four days after surgery or more than two weeks after surgery. Please contact me if you have any question about infection.
CALL MY OFFICE AND SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE ME ON _______________. PLEASE CALL ME IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR PROBLEMS.