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The Postoperative Care Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Recovery After Surgery

Mario Simmons

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Published in Postoperative Care Handbook Of The Massachusetts General Hospital (A Lippincott Williams Wilkins Handbook)

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Surgery is a major event that can have a significant impact on your physical and emotional health. While the surgery itself is often successful, the recovery period can be challenging. This handbook is designed to provide you with the information and tools you need to make your recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Postoperative Care Handbook of the Massachusetts General Hospital (A Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Handbook)

by DR. BHRATRI BHUSHAN

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9365 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	428 pages

Pain Management

One of the most common challenges after surgery is pain. Pain can interfere with your sleep, your ability to move around, and your overall recovery. There are a variety of pain management options available, including:

* Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen * Prescription pain medications * Physical therapy * Acupuncture * Massage

Your doctor will work with you to develop a pain management plan that is right for you.

Wound Care

Another important aspect of postoperative care is wound care. Your wound will need to be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. You may also need to change your dressings regularly. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your wound.

Recovery Tips

In addition to pain management and wound care, there are a number of other things you can do to help your recovery, including:

* Get plenty of rest. * Eat a healthy diet. * Drink plenty of fluids. * Avoid smoking and alcohol. * Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

When to Call Your Doctor

It is important to call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms after surgery:

* Fever * Chills * Redness or swelling of your wound * Drainage from your wound * Pain that is not relieved by medication * Difficulty breathing * Chest pain * Nausea or vomiting * Confusion

These symptoms may be a sign of infection or other complications that require medical attention.

Recovery from surgery can be a challenging process, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Your doctor and other healthcare providers are there to help you every step of the way. By following the tips in this handbook, you can help to make your recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Additional Resources

* The American College of Surgeons Patient Care Link: https://www.facs.org/covid-19/patient-care-link * The National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/ * The American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/ * The National Stroke Association: https://www.stroke.org/

Postoperative Care Handbook of the Massachusetts General Hospital (A Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Handbook)

by DR. BHRATRI BHUSHAN

4.4 out of 5