Recovery Room
After your operation, you may be taken directly back to your room or you may be transported to the
recovery room where other patients may be recovering as well. You may hear noises from the oxygen and
suction machines. This is normal. Most patients receive oxygen through a very small tube placed
in the nose. The tubing is not uncomfortable and the oxygen helps you to breathe easier. If you were
asleep, it helps you to wake up faster.
Your blood pressure will be monitored frequently by your nurse. This is standard procedure for all
surgical patients. Your physician or a nurse will stop in the waiting room to tell your family of your
progress after surgery and to let them know when you are ready to go back to your room.
Some people may feel emotionally unsettled for a few days after their surgery. These emotions may include
feelings of depression, anxiety or sadness. These are normal feelings. However, if these feelings
persist, you should discuss them with your physician.
Speeding your recovery
Depending upon the type of surgery you've undergone, you may be asked to get out of bed shortly after
you return to your room. This helps to maintain proper circulation and to promote clear lungs.
It is very important that a nurse is with you the first time you try to get out of bed. Moving
may be hard at first, but it helps speed your recovery. Some movements that you can do include:
Deep Breathing - Inhale as deeply as possible and hold for five to ten counts. Exhale normally.
Repeat 5 times. Deep breathing helps loosen and brings up lung secretions and clears your head from
the anesthesia The first day after your surgery, it is important to do deep breathing several times
every hour when awake.
Leg, Feet and Arm Movements - Your nurse will explain what kinds of movements you may do with
your legs, feet and arms. These movements help to relieve some of the soreness and circulates your blood
supply while you are lying down the first day after surgery.
Going Home
After your physician gives you permission to leave, you may go home. Your nurse will give you written
directions specific to your type of surgery for you to follow at home. If you have any questions, you
should contact your physician. If you are unable to reach a physician and you feel that you need immediate
medical consultation, please call Lourdes Hospital's Emergency Department at (607) 798-5231.
For more information about Outpatient Surgery, please call (607) 798-5321.