Discharge Instructions for Foot Surgery

Arrange to have an adult drive you home after surgery. If you had general anesthesia, it may take a day or more to fully recover. So, for at least the next 24 hours: Do not drive or use machinery or power tools; do not drink alcohol; and do not make any major decisions.

Diet

• Start with liquids and light foods (such as dry toast, bananas, and applesauce). As you feel up to it, slowly return to your normal diet.

• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water or other nonalcoholic fluids a day.

What to Expect

It is normal to have the following:

• Bruising and slight swelling of the foot and toes

• A small amount of blood on the dressing

Medications

• Take all medications as instructed.

• Take pain medications on time. Do not wait until the pain is bad before taking your medications.

• Avoid alcohol while on pain medications.

Activity

• Sit or lie down when possible. Put a pillow under your heel to raise your foot above the level of your heart.

• Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth. Place it over your bandaged foot for no longer than 20 minutes. Do this 3 time(s) a day.

• You can drive again in 7 day(s).

• Wear your surgical shoe at all times unless told otherwise by your health care provider.

• Use crutches or a cane as directed.

Bandage and Cast Care

• Do not shower for 48 hours.

• When you can shower again, cover the bandage or cast with a plastic bag to keep it dry.

• Remove the bandage after 4 days.

Call the doctor if you have:

• Continuous bleeding through the bandage

• Excessive swelling, increased bleeding, or redness

• Fever over 100.1°F or chills

• Pain unrelieved by pain medications

• Foot feels cold to the touch or numb

• Increased ache in your leg or foot

• Chest pain or shortness of breath

• Anything unusual that concerns you