When an elderly person returns home after surgery, their physical and psychological recovery period is typically longer than that of younger people. Beyond wound care, the core objectives are "maintaining function" and "preventing complications."  YDCare has prepared this guide on home care essentials and the prevention of common complications to help you and your family recover as soon as possible.

Four Major Points of Home Care

Medication Management

1. Painkillers: Seniors often refuse painkillers due to fear of side effects or addiction. However, enduring pain can suppress the depth of breathing and reduce mobility, which actually increases the risk of complications such as pneumonia and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Therefore, painkillers should be taken regularly and as prescribed to avoid wound pain from hindering a return to normal daily activities.

2.  Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Blood Thinning Medications: Before discharge, confirm with hospital staff whether chronic medications need adjustment. Since surgery may affect chronic conditions, it is essential to list all medications clearly to ensure they are taken on time and in the correct dosage.

Wound Care

Wounds must be kept dry. Unless there are specific instructions from a doctor, the frequency of dressing changes depends on the amount of exudate (fluid) or discharge.

Generally, if the wound does not have excessive exudate, dressings can be changed every three to four days. If the dressing becomes soiled or loosened, it is recommended to clean the wound and apply a new dressing immediately to keep it clean and reduce infection risks.

Nutrition and Hydration

1. High Protein: Unless contraindicated, choose high-protein foods such as fish, lean meat, eggs, and tofu. Protein helps repair muscle and skin tissue, promoting wound healing.

2. Adequate Fiber and Water: Reduced activity and the use of painkillers increase the risk of constipation. One should consume high-fiber vegetables and fruits and maintain sufficient water intake. However, patients who have undergone colorectal surgery are advised to follow a low-fiber diet for one month post-surgery. Seniors with heart failure or kidney disease also have strict limits on fluid intake. Consult a dietitian if you have questions about post-surgical nutrition.

Fall Prevention

Seniors may experience weakened physical strength after surgery, and medications may cause dizziness. It is important to keep hallways clear, ensure adequate lighting, and wear non-slip shoes. Caregivers should provide assistance when walking, or use walking aids when necessary.

Preventing Avoidable Complications

Common post-surgical complications include pneumonia, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), delirium, and pressure injuries. These can be very dangerous for the elderly. However, we can train seniors to perform simple daily movements to significantly reduce these risks.

1. Pneumonia

Prevention: Deep breathing exercises and effective coughing. Seniors may decrease their breathing depth due to pain, which can lead to lung collapse and pneumonia. It is recommended to practice breathing exercises 5 to 10 times every hour to help the lungs expand effectively.

2. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Prevention: Early mobilization. If the patient is bedridden, they should perform ankle exercises (ankle pumps) or passive limb movements in bed. Compression stockings can also be worn to promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots.

3. Delirium (Confusion)

Prevention: Talk to the elder frequently to help them maintain a sense of time and place. Prevent confusion by informing them of the current date, the reason for the surgery, and the post-surgical treatment plan.

4. Pressure Injuries (Pressure Sores)

Prevention: For bedridden seniors, check the skin daily, especially at bony prominences. Turn and reposition the patient every 2 to 4 hours to avoid prolonged pressure on the skin and subcutaneous tissues.

Warm Reminders for Caregivers

-  Progressive Activity: Do not let the elder stay in bed indefinitely out of pity. As soon as their strength allows, establish a rehabilitation plan and encourage them to increase their walking distance slightly each day to prevent functional decline.

-  Psychological Support: The feeling of helplessness after surgery often leads to low moods or anxiety. Patience, listening, and encouragement will have a significant impact on the speed of recovery.

When a senior undergoes surgery, we must look beyond the local wound and monitor their overall condition, including respiratory status and activity levels. Therefore, a post-surgical care plan should be discussed with medical staff even before the surgery begins to ensure safe rehabilitation at home. For more information regarding post-surgical home care arrangements, please contact our Nurse Manager at 4625 5777.