Post-Op

Question 1

What does ERAS stand for?

Answer 1

Enhanced Recovery after Surgery.

Question 2

What are the aims of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)?

Answer 2

• Reduce stress to body during surgery.
• Increase patient participation in recovery.
• Reduce length of stay.

Question 3

What is the pathway for enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)?

Answer 3

• Preoperative assessment, planning & preparation.
• Reducing the physical stress of the operation.
• Structured approach to post-op care/management.
• Early mobilisation.

Question 4

What does POD stand for?

Answer 4

Post-op day.

(E.g.: POD 1, POD 2, etc.)

Question 5

What day do you mobilise & treat your patient post-op and why?

Answer 5

Post-op day (POD) 0.

• Because we want to get them moving as soon as possible.
• Wouldn’t POD 0 if complication in surgery (i.e. haemmorhage) or if still drowsy from anaesthetic.

Question 6

What are some examples of bed exercises you can teach your patient post-op?

Answer 6

• Clamming
• Glute bridges
• Rolling
• Plantar flexion/dorsi flexion (for calves)

Question 7

What are the aims of post-op physio management?

Answer 7

• Improve V/Q matching.
• Restore FRC.
• Maintain sputum clearance.
• Restore mobility.

Question 8

What are some physio treatment options for post-op?

Answer 8

• Positioning.
• Mobilise.
• ACBT (splinted cough).
• Humidification.
• Incentive spirometry, flutter devices.
• Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing (IPPB).
• CPAP –> BiPAP.
• Manual hyperinflation, Suctioning.