You are the person that plays the most important role in your preparation and recovery from colorectal cancer surgery. Did you know your active involvement can boost your recovery? There are many things you can do before and after your surgery that will help you to recover from your operation faster. RecoverESupport is a guide that will help to do these things.
Will help to co-ordinate your care before and after surgery, and can answer your questions about your treatment, or anything covered in this website.
If you require a stoma (i.e. re-routing the bowel through a hole created in your abdomen), the nurse will work with you to assist you to manage your stoma.
Is a doctor who has specialised training in bowel or colorectal surgery. The surgeon will perform your operation, and will meet with you before and after the surgery to plan and discuss your treatment, and after your surgery.
Is a doctor who has specialised training in providing anaesthesia to patients for your operations. The anaesthetist will meet with you before and after the surgery. They will stay and monitor you for the duration of your colorectal surgery. They will also manage your pain after surgery.
Nurse Unit Manager (NUM): is in charge of the running of the ward.
Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS): specialists in colorectal nursing and can provide advice and support to other staff and to patients.
Registered Nurses (RN) / Enrolled Nurses (EN): provide your daily nursing care.
Patient Flow Coordinator: will manage the discharge process.
If you require the assistance of any Allied Health Team member, please inform the Nurse in Charge or the nurse caring for you who can arrange an appointment during your stay.
Dietitian – can help you optimise your nutrition and select foods after your operation to assist with your recovery.
Physiotherapist – can work with you towards your goals of moving around again after your operation, which may include breathing exercises and walking.
Social Worker – can provide you, your family and friends with emotional support, and can organise practical support if needed after discharge.
Other support – Depending on your needs, you may also see a: Pharmacist, Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Psychologist, Drug & Alcohol worker, Interpreter, Minister, Occupational Therapist, Palliative Care worker, Speech Therapist.
