Postoperative

Postoperative describes the period after a surgical procedure and the care required during that time. The postoperative phase begins when anesthesia wears off and continues through early recovery, hospital stay, and often into rehabilitation. It ends with return to baseline health or discharge, with ongoing follow-up as needed.

Immediate postoperative care focuses on restoring airway and breathing, maintaining circulation, managing pain, and preventing nausea. Patients are monitored for vital signs, oxygenation, fluid balance, and signs of bleeding. Analgesia is tailored to minimize pain while enabling mobilization, often combining opioids with non-opioid and regional techniques when appropriate. Nausea and vomiting are treated, and patients are encouraged to breathe deeply and cough to reduce lung complications.

Throughout recovery, wound care and infection prevention are important. Wounds are assessed for drainage and signs of infection; dressings are changed as advised. Prophylaxis for thromboembolism, early mobilization, pulmonary hygiene, and nutrition support help reduce complications. Plans for physical therapy, rehabilitation, and gradual return to activities are individualized.

Possible complications include surgical site infection, excessive bleeding, fluid imbalances, pneumonia or atelectasis, venous thromboembolism, and delirium, particularly in older patients. Most complications are mitigated by careful monitoring, timely intervention, and adherence to evidence-based protocols.

Discharge decisions are based on stability, pain control, ability to tolerate oral intake, and functional status. Patients may transition to outpatient care with instructions on wound care, medications, activity restrictions, and signs of warning symptoms. Follow-up appointments and rehabilitation services support continued recovery.