Providence OR Surgery Program

15 Section 3: Going Home Safely Pain Control after Your Surgery We will work with you to manage any pain you have after surgery. It is normal to experience some pain after surgery. Our goal is to keep your pain at a manageable level that allows you to participate in the activities needed for a good recovery. A few important reminders about pain: • Keep your care team informed about your level of pain. Preventing and treating pain early is easier than trying to treat pain after it becomes severe. • Rating your pain helps you and your care team manage pain more effectively. • Non-opioid medications, such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen, may be offered around the clock to keep your pain at a level that you can tolerate. Over-the-counter medications are very helpful at controlling postoperative pain. If you received these in the hospital, you should continue use at home until your pain improves. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen (if your surgeon approves) are the medications that reduce the inflammation that is the primary source of postoperative pain. Using these medicines as the first line of defense for pain control will significantly improve your recovery and reduce the need for opiates. Acetaminophen: 650 mg (2 pills, 325mg each) every six hours or up to four times per day. DO NOT USE if you have liver problems. Please be aware if your prescription opioid contains acetaminophen, do not exceed 4 grams in a 24 hour period (3 grams if age 65 or older). Ibuprofen: 600mg (3 pills, 200 mg each) every six hours or up to four times a day. Use only if instructed by your surgeon. DO NOT USE if you have kidney or stomach problems, a history of ulcers, or are over 75. If your surgeon has recommended postoperative use of acetaminophen and ibuprofen, an example schedule would be: 7:00a.m. – 650 mg acetaminophen (add opiate if severe pain) 10:00a.m. – 600 mg ibuprofen 1:00p.m. – 650 mg acetaminophen 4:00p.m. – 600 mg ibuprofen 7:00p.m. – 650 mg acetaminophen Bedtime – 1-2 opioid Pain Education We have two classes available to help you understand how pain happens, and how your pain level can be decreased. After taking one of those classes you will learn how your own actions and thoughts can relieve your pain and help you return to a life you can enjoy. You will practice calming techniques to decrease stress and quiet pain. Please visit www.providence.org/classes or call 503-574-6595. You can access a video about pain by scanning the QR code on the left, or visit us at www.providence.org/paintoolkit Pain Take your pain medications as needed and directed. Other methods that can help with pain relief are guided imagery, music therapy, breathing and relaxation exercises. If you have questions about your

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