After Surgery

After surgery, the staff will take you to an intensive care unit or recovery room. While you are in this area you will be monitored constantly by a highly trained staff.

Anesthetics wear off at different rates. Some people respond in an hour or two but most people take longer. You may be able to hear or open your eyes before you can move your arms and legs. Soon your mind and body will be fully responsive.

When you awaken, you may find you have a tube in your mouth that is preventing you from talking. This is a breathing tube connected to a respirator. The respirator will take care of your breathing until you have recovered enough to breathe on your own. Even though you may not be able to talk because of the tube in your mouth, the nurses that are caring for you are very experienced and will be able to understand your needs using various signs and written communication.

The breathing tube and other tubes and wires will be removed at various time periods after surgery. Drainage tubes running from your chest will prevent fluid from gathering around your heart. A urinary catheter in your bladder will allow the urine to be measured to determine kidney function. Intravenous tubes ( I.V.) in your arms are to administer fluids and medications. Other lines that may be in the neck area or wrist directly monitor the function of the heart and blood pressure. Electrode patches and wires on the skin are used to monitor your heart rate and rhythm. Once the breathing tube is removed, you will be encouraged to breathe deeply and cough to help eliminate secretions from your lungs. Your nurse or therapist can help you do this safely and as comfortably as possible. Keeping your lungs clear is a precaution against pneumonia and is an important factor in your recuperation.

In the intensive care unit you will be given medication at regular intervals. This and other factors may cause some disorientation and confusion. If this happens to you, do not be concerned since this is not unusual and will not last long. Most patients complain of being sore and stiff but usually do not have severe pain.