First Aid & Emergencies

Your doctor will want you to start moving as soon after surgery as you can. This will help prevent problems such as pneumonia, blood clots, and bed sores. These things may happen because you have to stay in bed so long.

After your surgery, it will be hard for you to do things yourself. You may need to go to a nursing home or rehabilitation center for a while after your surgery. But the more active you can be in your care, the faster you will get better.

How can you prevent a hip fracture?

There are many things you can do to prevent a hip fracture. One of the most important is to prevent osteoporosis. This disease can happen to men or women. But it is more common in women.

To slow or prevent osteoporosis:

• Get plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Eat foods high in calcium. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy foods have lots of calcium. Dark green vegetables, some seafood, and almonds are also good. If you want to take calcium and vitamin D supplements, talk to your doctor about how much you need to take.
• Avoid alcohol, and do not smoke.
• Do weight-bearing exercise that puts pressure on bones and muscles. Walking is a good choice.
• Some people need to take medicine to slow osteoporosis.

Preventing falls is also very important.

• Arrange furniture so that you will not trip on it.
• Get rid of throw rugs, and move electrical cords out of the way.
• Be sure you have good lighting where you are walking.
• Put grab bars in showers and bathtubs.
• Outside of your home, avoid icy or snowy sidewalks.
• Wear shoes with sturdy, flat soles.
• Get your eyes checked.
• Avoid too much alcohol.
• Exercise to help keep your strength and balance.
• Take medicines only as directed and periodically review your medicines with your primary care doctor, especially if you have more than one doctor. Some medicines, such as sleeping pills or pain relievers, can increase your risk of falling.

Frequently Asked Questions