RECOVERY AT HOME · WORLDWIDE PLANNING

Questions to ask before returning home after surgery

Agree the plan with the discharge team before buying equipment.

Accessible Home Hub editorial · Published 6 October 2026

Recovery needs differ by procedure and person. An internet checklist cannot tell you which movements or equipment are appropriate. Use these questions to prepare a conversation with the treating team and the person coming home.

Clarify the daily routine

Ask how the person will get into the home, reach the toilet, wash, rest and obtain meals. Describe stairs, narrow entrances and the usual sleeping arrangement. Tell the team if the available helper cannot manage the tasks being proposed.

Ask about restrictions

• What movements or activities should be avoided, and for how long?
• Has the person been shown how to use prescribed equipment?
• Does any equipment need to arrive or be fitted before discharge?
• Who confirms that it fits the home and the person's needs?
• What follow-up or temporary support is arranged?

Prepare the route

Discuss obstacles and poor lighting along essential routes. Agree who will make ordinary housekeeping changes. Do not alter support equipment or attempt a transfer technique without the team's advice.

Keep contact details together

Request written recovery instructions, the planned follow-up and the number to call for equipment problems. Ask the clinical team for warning signs and when urgent help is needed; those instructions must be specific to the person's care.

Review as recovery changes

A temporary arrangement may stop meeting the person's needs. Agree when equipment and support will be reviewed, and whether loaned items need to be returned. Avoid buying permanent adaptations solely on assumptions about a short recovery period.

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