ABSTRACT: The immediate postoperative period is often under-utilised as an opportunity to be proactive in terms of improving patient well-being and increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome. This paper discusses several ways in which this can be addressed easily in practice. The first part discusses the aims of immediate postoperative recovery and deals mainly with reducing patient morbidity and pain and improving wound heating. The second part discusses the role of nutrition in improving patient recovery, and touches on ancillary rehabilitation methods, including local hypo- and hyperthermia, passive range of movement exercises and behavioural concerns.

Author

Julian Hoad BSc(Hons) BVetMed MRCVS

Prior to qualifying from the Royal Veterinary College in 1996, Julian read for a degree in microbiology and biochemistry, going on to study retroviruses for three years. He is co-partner and owner of Crossways Veterinary Group in Storrington, West Sussex – a first- opinion small animal practice. Julian’s main interests are soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery and he has lectured extensively to vets and veterinary nurses about surgery, pain management and ultrasound.

Julian lives in West Sussex with his wife and two daughters, and whenever he gets any time off he is usually to be found on a rock face somewhere.

Keywords: Clinical, Postoperative, Recovery

To cite this article: Veterinary Nursing Journal • VOL 28 (02) • February 2013 • pp44-46

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