Preventing complications

Your caregivers will do many things to reduce your chance of developing a complication or problem after surgery.

• Your blood pressure, temperature and pulse will be taken often after surgery.
• To improve circulation, you will wear compression stockings until you are walking at least four to five times each day.
• You will do deep breathing, coughing exercises, and use an incentive spirometer to help protect your respiratory system.
• Your dressing and incision will be checked often. The dressing will be changed or removed as needed. Staples are usually removed three days after surgery.
• You will have an intravenous (IV) line for one day. It is important to drink six to eight glasses of liquids each day.

If you have questions about these care activities, ask your doctor or nurse.