Postoperative Care Rules: Practical Home Guide
How to care for a patient at home after surgery: wound care and dressing changes, hygiene, medication schedule, pain control, signs of infection and when to call a doctor.
Contents
After surgery, the body enters a recovery phase. Successful outcomes depend not only on the surgery itself but also on proper care during the following days. Correct hygiene, wound care, medication adherence and early detection of warning signs are essential for safe recovery.
Note: This article provides general information. Your surgeon’s instructions should always take priority.
The first 24–72 hours after surgery
- Rest more and avoid sudden physical activity
- Follow recommended hydration and diet guidelines
- Take medications exactly as prescribed
Wound care
Proper wound care requires cleanliness, dryness and regular monitoring.
- Wash hands before touching the dressing
- Avoid aggressive solutions unless prescribed
- Change dressings if wet or contaminated
If you are unsure how to perform proper wound care, you can request a home nurse visit .
Signs of infection
- increasing redness around the wound
- swelling or warmth
- pus or unpleasant discharge
- fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
Pain management
Pain after surgery is normal. The goal is not to eliminate pain completely but to keep it manageable with prescribed medications.
Movement and recovery
Both excessive activity and complete inactivity can slow recovery. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for walking and returning to normal activities.
Nutrition and hydration
Protein-rich foods and sufficient fluid intake help support tissue healing and recovery.
When to seek urgent medical care
- heavy or persistent bleeding
- shortness of breath or chest pain
- high fever
- wound opening or stitches separating
Need medical help at home?
Through the Onlayn Hamshira service you can request home medical services across Uzbekistan:
- home injection services
- IV infusions
- wound dressing changes
- home laboratory tests
