Change only the outer layers, and only as instructed. Do not lift the graft, remove wound material, or pick at a scab.
Use only the ointment, solution, and dressing materials your team recommends. Do not apply alcohol, peroxide, or another antiseptic unless instructed.
Different wounds need different moisture levels. Follow your specific dressing plan rather than letting the wound dry out or soaking it.
Bathing and activity
Sponge bathe and protect the dressing from water until you are cleared to shower. Do not soak or swim.
Keep pressure and friction off the treated area. Follow any limits on walking, weight bearing, elevation, or use of special footwear.
Call if a dressing becomes wet, soiled, displaced, or soaked through, or if you are unsure how to replace the outer layer.
Watch the wound
Contact the practice for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, a new bad smell, thick drainage, or fever.
Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or feeling seriously unwell.
Medicines, comfort & driving
Take medicines exactly as prescribed. Ask before adding a pain medicine or laxative, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, ulcers, or take a blood thinner.
Some prescription pain medicines already contain acetaminophen (Tylenol). Check labels to avoid taking it twice. Do not mix opioid pain medicines with alcohol or other sedating medicines unless your prescriber has specifically directed you.
Do not drive while taking a medicine that makes you sleepy or slows your reactions. Follow the time restriction from your anesthesia team, and wait until you can move comfortably and brake safely.
Walk regularly within your procedure’s restrictions. Use your prescribed bowel regimen if pain medicine causes constipation. Drink fluids only within any limits set by your medical team.
WHEN TO GET HELP
Know when to call.
Call 911 for an emergency
Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or heavy bleeding that will not stop needs emergency help.
Contact the practice promptly
Call for fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, repeated vomiting, inability to keep liquids down, or difficulty urinating.
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen with vomiting, or feeling seriously unwell needs urgent medical evaluation. If you cannot reach your team, go to an emergency department.