In a previous article, we looked at helping people understand their options when making a decision about surgery.

If they’ve decided to go ahead, you need to help them prepare for the operation, the period after surgery and getting back to work. Providing them with information and assistance can make a big difference to this preparation, recovery and return to work.

Preparing for the post-operative period

People need to know what to expect during their recovery period. Note the case of the surgeon who was surprised how painful recovering from his own carpal tunnel surgery was. Heavens only knows what he was telling his patients all those years about carpal tunnel recuperation.

Recovery from some types of surgery – such as a shoulder operation – is particularly painful. People do better when they are prepared. For example, somebody undergoing carpal tunnel surgery will not have effective use of their hand for some weeks, and needs to plan accordingly.

Understanding their particular situation will help them prepare. Examples might include:

• Advice on preparing meals in advance;
• Organising alternate arrangements for housework with family or friends;
• Assistance with transport. Can you organise someone to give them a lift to work when they are ready to come back on restricted duties?

Discuss return to work

You should always have a discussion regarding return to work before surgery.

Help the person to get clear about:

• How long their surgeon or treating doctor has advised they will need off work;
• Whether there be work restrictions when they return to work;
• What sort of alternate duties will be appropriate;
• What types of jobs you have available that will fit the restrictions; and
• The value of discussing duties with the treater/s.

A RTW program based on likely restrictions can be developed, for discussion with the person and their surgeon.

In most cases the plan will be suitable. But, be prepared to be flexible. Sometimes there are unexpected findings at the operation, e.g., a more major tear found at shoulder surgery that requires a larger operation. Revise the plan if needed.

Keep in touch

Keeping in regular contact with somebody recovering from surgery is key to ensuring effective RTW.

Things to do post-op:

• Send a message the workplace is thinking of them. Deliver flowers or a fruit basket to their home, or to the hospital. Visit them.

• Call them when they are home from hospital. Let them know you are thinking about them. Ask if all has gone well and check-in if they need anything. Is it appropriate for one or a few of their co-workers to drop around or to call to say hi? Send a card signed by the team.

• Welcome them back! When they come back to work, make them feel like a part of the team that’s been missed. Ask what they need, discuss with them what they think they can do and what is problematic about doing the job. Let them go home early if they need to in the early stages and ask if they need assistance with transport.

• Touch base regarding modified duties and RTW. Have regular catch-ups to make sure the worker is coping with tasks and isn’t feeling overwhelmed. Returning to work following surgery can be stressful and mental health problems can arise if communication between parties is poor.

Having surgery can be painful, tiring and difficult. Support goes a long way to assisting and improving well being, and return to work outcomes.