Discharge Instructions Following Inguinal Hernia Repair

Endoscopic or Open Inguinal Hernia Repair

Please note- Within 24 hours of your Operation You Must Not:

• Drive a car or take public transport unaccompanied.
• Operate Machinery or Consume alcohol
• Sign any legal documents or make any responsible decisions

Analgesia:

• Take Paracetamol 2 Tabs 4-6 hourly if required.
• Stronger analgesia such as Endone or Tramadol may be prescribed and can be taken if needed as per instructions for the first few days
• Do not drive or operate machinery if taking prescribed medication.

Diet:

• There are no dietary restrictions. Aim to eat nourishing, healthy foods but to avoid post-operative constipation please increase fluid and fibre intake.
• Take a laxative if needed. Eg. Agarol, Lactulose

Activity:

• Avoid lifting heavy objects (7 – 10 kgs) or engage in vigorous exercise for a period of 4 weeks.
• Slowly increase your activity levels over this time. Light housework and gardening may be undertaken during this time.
• You may drive your car when you feel confident and safe to do so.

Care of Wound:

• Clear plastic dressings can be left in place until your review appointment. These are waterproof and you may shower as normal.
• Please change your dressings if they get wet or become smelly. Call the rooms nurse for advice if unsure about what to do
• Any sutures will be removed at your follow-up appointment with your Surgeon.
• If you have had a hernia repair some bruising and swelling around the wound and/or genital area is quite common

On-going Care:

• Attend your post-operative appointment that will be made for you prior to discharge from Hospital.
• If you do not have a post-operative appointment booked prior to discharge please call our Rooms on 9210 7278 to arrange one.
• Please call our rooms if any of the following occur:
  • If you experience any problems with your wound, including abnormal redness, pain, smell or discharge.
  • You develop a fever, or get hot/cold flushes.
  • Your pain is not being relieved by the analgesia you are using.
  • If after-hours call your GP or for urgent matters after-hours present to the Emergency Department & notify our rooms during business hours on the following business day.