You can make your hospital stay more comfortable for yourself and your family by doing a few simple things:

• If you wish, let your friends and your clergyman know about your spine surgery well ahead of time so they can call or visit. If you do not want visitors at any time during your hospital stay, ask your nurse to put a notice on your door so you can enjoy your privacy.
• Take an active role in your care, such as planning your hospital meals, noting your goals and achievements, and keeping track of your medicines.
• Good nutrition before and after surgery is important for health and progress. Good nutrition is a balance of calories, protein, fiber and iron. Calories are always important after having surgery. Protein is important because it helps to rebuild muscles, repair tissues, fight infection and heal.
• If you have hobbies that can be done from the hospital (reading, knitting, listening to music), feel free to bring them with you.
• Get plenty of rest so you'll have enough energy for hospital activities, such as physical therapy.
• Set a small goal every day and try to achieve it by the end of the day.
• Take pain medicine as prescribed so you'll be able to participate in therapies with a limited amount of pain. Ask your nurse when therapy is scheduled so you can take your medications before the therapist arrives.

 Source:  Piedmont Spine Surgery Patient Education Guide