How do you care for a mastectomy patient?

In addition to your surgeon’s instructions, here are some general guidelines to follow at home:

1. Rest.
2. Take pain medication as needed.
3. Take sponge baths until your doctor has removed your drains and/or sutures.
4. Continue doing arm exercises each day.
5. Have friends and family pitch in around the house.

Which position is given to a patient after mastectomy?

It was found that the position of 90 degrees flexion at the shoulder with 90 degrees flexion of the elbow with the hand pointing across or cephalically, on alternate days, was the most suitable. This position does not compromise movements at the shoulder.

Is a mastectomy an inpatient procedure?

A Total Mastectomy without immediate reconstruction can be performed on an outpatient or go home the same day basis. A mastectomy with immediate reconstruction by a plastic surgeon usually consists of a 48 hour inpatient stay at the hospital.

What do you give someone after a mastectomy?

What can you give someone who has had a mastectomy?

• Comfortable and accessible clothing.
• Post mastectomy bra.
• Scar products.
• Breast pillows.
• Nipple tattoos.
• Meditations for healing.
• Lymphedema products.
• Mastectomy gift box.

Do you elevate arm after mastectomy?

While sitting or while lying on your back rest your arm on a few pillows next to you. Your arm should be raised above the level of your heart. Avoid holding your arm up for an extended period of time to reduce arm muscle fatigue.

How do you prepare for a mastectomy?

Preparing for your surgery

1. Tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins or supplements you’re taking. Some substances could interfere with the surgery.
2. Stop taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medication.
3. Don’t eat or drink 8 to 12 hours before surgery.
4. Prepare for a hospital stay.

How should arm be placed after mastectomy?

Your elbows should be as close to shoulder height as possible. Keep your arms and feet in place and move your chest toward the corner. You will feel a stretch across your chest and shoulders.

How to take care of a patient before a mastectomy?

Your patient should be starved for at least 6 hours before the surgery, and make sure that she is kept hydrated through adequate IVI infusions. On the morning of the surgery, ask her to take a pregnancy test to rule out any unexpected pregnancies. Check that her incision site is marked and confirm whether she needs to shave.

How is a mastectomy done under general anesthesia?

Mastectomy is done under general (or regional) anesthesia, in the supine position, with the patient’s arms abducted at 90 degrees and, depending on the operative plan, with one or both arms sterilely draped into the operative field. Prophylactic antibiotics are given prior to induction.

Are there any options for reconstruction after a mastectomy?

Breast reconstruction, surgery to rebuild a breast’s shape, is often an option after mastectomy and is covered by some health insurance plans. Learn more now. After patients have completed treatment for early stage breast cancer, one of the common questions is, “How should I best be monitored?”

What happens to the breast after a mastectomy?

During mastectomy surgery. After the incision is made, the breast tissue is separated from the overlying skin and from the chest wall muscle underneath. All of the breast tissue — which lies between the collarbone and ribs, from the side of the body to the breastbone in the center — is removed.