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How to Prepare for Elective Surgery


Preparing Emotionally


Anxiety and fear are normal responses to planned surgery. But having a full understanding of the procedure can reduce your stress and result in a better outcome.  It may help to review the set of questions we have offered you in the Deciding on Elective Surgery section of this website.

People scheduled for an operation often find it helpful to practice relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, meditating and visualizing a positive outcome from surgery and a quick recovery period.

Publication Source: Vitality magazine/August 2004 Author: Floria, Barbara Online Source: National Women's Health Resource Center http://www.healthywomen.org/ Online Editor: Sinovic, Dianna Online Medical Reviewer: Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN Online Medical Reviewer: Lambert, J.G. M.D. Date Last Reviewed: 6/13/2006 Date Last Modified: 6/14/2006

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