​​​​​​Day 1

You will:

• do your own self-care (like wash yourself)
• start physiotherapy, which includes getting out of bed with help; follow your weight bearing instructions
• sit in a chair for at least 1 meal
• do your deep breathing and bed exercises
• still have your IV and bladder catheter
• restart your regular medicine
• start taking calcium and vitamin D
• drink the nutrition supplement
• take medicine for pain or discomfort, as needed (especially before your physiotherapy), or if your stomach is upset
• keep taking a blood thinner
• the catheter in your bladder may be taken out
• have blood work and other tests done as needed

Day 2 to 5

• Your catheter is taken out on Day 2, if it’s still in. You’ll use a toilet with a raised seat or a commode chair to go to the bathroom.
• Your IV will be taken out once you’re drinking well.
• Your dressing is changed. If your incision isn’t draining, the dressing is left off.
• You’ll wash and dress yourself.
• You’ll be up walking. Be sure to wear supportive shoes.
• You’ll sit up in a chair for meals.
• Drink the nutrition supplement you are given you 3 or 4 times a day.
• You may have other tests, such as x-rays, done as needed.
• A physical therapist (PT) will teach you exercises to strengthen and protect your hip while it heals The PT will also help you become more mobile by showing you how to use the walking aid that’s best for you.
• An occupational therapist (OT) will help you learn how to use adaptive aids you may need at home. This will include how to manage your self-care (like dressing), get in/out of bed, on/off the toilet and chairs, in/out of the tub or shower, and in/out of a car. The OT will help arrange equipment and services you’ll need when you leave the hospital.

Thinking about Discharge

It’s important to start thinking about your discharge from the hospital. If you live out of town, you may be sent to the hospital in your town. If you live in long-term care, you’ll go back there. If you can’t be discharged home yet, you may go to another area or site that will work on your mobility and your daily activities.