Breathing exercises
As soon as you wake from your surgery, you should begin the breathing exercises taught to you before surgery. Your nurses, doctors and physiotherapist will remind you to complete these and monitor your technique. If pain makes it hard to take deep breaths, please tell any of your treating team members.
Getting out of bed
Getting out of bed and walking is essential to your recovery after surgery. Early movement and sitting out of bed helps reduce the risk of any problems developing in your lungs and prevents muscle loss. Your nurses and/or physiotherapist will help you get out of bed until you are confident to do this on your own. Expect to get out of bed and move the day after your surgery.
When you do rest in bed ensure you are changing your position (side to side, sitting upright, lying down) every 2 hours during waking hours to protect your skin from pressure injuries. Your care team may assist you to do this if you have concerns or difficulties.
If you have concerns about your physical recovery and/or returning home, please speak to any member of your care team.
Comfortable sitting after surgery
Research shows that greater time out of bed equals a faster recovery. Your nurses, doctors and physiotherapists will encourage and support you to sit out of bed as soon as it is appropriate, often this may be the day after your surgery. However, certain surgeries may require specific positioning and support with cushions or aids when sitting to help your recovery, this will be discussed with you by your surgeon.
Whilst sitting out of bed ensure a comfortable position by:
- Making sure your back is well supported; you may find a small pillow behind you may help
- Having your arms supported on the arm rests
- Having your feet supported on the floor or elevated on a foot stool
- Ensuring you shift your weight side to side or if safe to do so by standing up and sitting down every hour or so to protect your skin from pressure injuries
- Checking you have all necessary amenities within your reach, for example: your call bell, a drink, tissues, phone and blanket.
If you are unsure or finding sitting uncomfortable, please speak to your care team to refer to an occupational therapist.