During Your Hospital Stay
After surgery, you'll be sent to the PACU (postanesthesia care unit). When you are fully awake, you'll be moved to your room. You can expect to feel some pain at first. To gain the best pain relief, answer honestly when you are asked how much you hurt. Soon, health care providers will help you get up and moving. You'll also be shown how to clear your lungs.
In the PACU
When you wake up, you'll be on your back or side in the PACU. The nurses will give you medications to ease your pain. You may have a catheter (small tube) in your bladder. There may also be a drain in your low back. To help reduce the risk of blood clots, you might be wearing compression boots or special stockings.
In Your Hospital Room
You'll be moved to your room when you are alert and your blood pressure and pulse are stable. An IV and the catheter are likely to still be in place. Health care providers will check on you often. The nurses will work closely with you to control your pain. Once you are in your room, family and friends will be able to visit you.
Controlling Pain
At first, you may be given pain medications by IV or injection. Expect to feel some pain, even with the medications. This is normal. But if the medication does not reduce your pain, be sure to tell the nurse.
PCA Puts You in Control
With PCA (patient-controlled analgesia), pain medication is sent through an IV line at the push of a button. To provide a steady level of pain relief, only you should push the button. For your safety, the pumps have special features to limit the amount of medication you receive.
Getting Up and Moving
You may begin to walk within hours after surgery. This reduces some risks of surgery, such as blood clots. With an IV and a PCA pump in place, walking may be a little tricky. But don't worry. A health care provider will help you.
Clearing Your Lungs
Fluid can collect in the lungs after any surgery. To clear your lungs and prevent pneumonia, breathe deeply and cough. You should do this often?at least a few times each hour. A respiratory therapist or nurse may show you how to use an incentive spirometer. This machine can help you breathe in and out the right way.
Controlling Pain
