Robert C. Wright, M.D., P.S.
MERIDIAN SURGERY CENTER
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR INGUINAL/FEMORAL HERNIA REPAIR:
**Follow any instructions that Dr. Wright may have given you in addition to the following:
1. DIET: Advance diet slowly starting with clear liquids (tea, apple juice) and advance diet as tolerated
keeping to a low fat, high fiber diet as directed.
2. FOR YOUR SAFETY A RESPONSIBLE ADULT MUST DRIVE YOU HOME AND STAY WITH YOU FOR 24 HOURS
FOLLOWING YOUR SURGERY.
3. For at least 24 hours or while taking pain medicine do not drive a motor vehicle or any dangerous
machinery, do not drink any alcohol or make any important decisions as your judgment will be impaired.
4. Call Dr. Wright at (253) 840-1999 if you have:
A. Fever (greater than 101 degrees orally)
B. Shortness of breath, chest pain or extreme pain in calf/calves (Call 911)
C. Continued vomiting or excessive bleeding.
D. Severe pain unresponsive to the prescribed pain medicine.
E. Rash/Hives/Itching – stop prescribed medication, take Benadryl immediately and call the office. If
you can’t breathe or swallow call 911.
F. Changes in the wound appearance: Increased redness, swelling, warm to touch, or any unusual
drainage (yellow, foul-smelling).
5. If you have a problem and cannot reach your doctor or the doctor on call, go to the emergency room, or
call 911 for any life threatening emergencies.
6. Dr. Wright can continue your care at St. Clare Hospital Emergency Room – (253) 985-8700
7. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS & WOUND CARE:
a. No Aspirin or Ibuprofen products for one week; Tylenol is okay if not taking prescription pain
medication containing acetaminophen.
b. Minimal activity for 2-3 days. Climb stairs slowly, hanging onto rail.
c. Remove the outer band-aids in 24 hours and shower using a mild soap, pat skin dry. Leave the
steri-strips on until they fall off (usually a week). No soaking in a bathtub, hot tub, pool, lake/river
for 2 weeks. Do not use any antibiotic ointment, creams or hydrogen peroxide on incision unless
directed by Surgeon. Use a regular band-aid(s) and change once a day or as needed if it becomes
soiled.
d. Use stool softeners and Milk of Magnesia until bowel movements are normal.
e. Do not lift more than 10 pounds until approved by your doctor.
f. Men should wear an athletic supporter 24/7 for about a week to reduce excessive swelling,
bruising in the scrotum. Some swelling and bruising is normal.
1. Supplies taken home: ice pack
2. Your Post-op Appointment has been schedule for
3. You should expect a call within the next day or two from one of our nursing staff to check on your
progress. If you should have a problem, please contact the doctor before going to the emergency room.
ESCORT SIGNATURE
Date ________________________
R.N.
Time _________________am / pm
208 17th AVE SE, Suite 210 PUYALLUP, WA 98372
REVISED 6.2011 MLH
253-840-1999