Postoperative Problems

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Topic Overview

Many people do not feel well after surgery. Pain, nausea, and a lack of energy may occur even after a minor surgery. Usually, getting some rest and following the instructions your surgeon gave you will help postoperative problems diminish over time.

Different types of surgery require different home care instructions. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow after your surgery. This includes learning about your medicines, diet restrictions, wound care, showering or bathing, and finding out when you can return to your regular activities. Your surgeon may think that you understand more than you really do about what you should or should not do when you return home. If you have any questions about your discharge instructions, be sure to ask your surgeon.

Your surgeon will want to talk to you if you:

• Have questions about your home care instructions, such as wound care, diet, or activity level, or when to schedule a follow-up appointment.
• Develop a symptom or problem that you do not know how to handle.
• Develop an unexpected symptom or problem.
• Have problems with your prescription medicines. These problems may include a rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, or stomach problems.

Review the Emergencies and Check Your Symptoms sections to determine if and when you need to see a health professional.

Last updated:	January 15, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer