Importance of early ambulation after abdominal surgery : Nurses’ role

Abstract

Abdominal surgery is a surgical procedure performed that involves opening the abdominal cavity and/or pelvic cavity to diagnose and/or treat conditions affecting the organs and tissues in that area. The operation commonly causes pain which usually leads to postoperative complications; such as lung atelectasis and post-operative ileus which resulting in increased hospital cost and length of stay. Nurses are responsible for providing closely and continuity patient care. Therefore, they have significant in preventing postoperative complications and ensure safety via providing proper pre operative and post operative recommendations, control post-operative pain, discomfort after abdominal surgery and encourage the patients to move and engage in early ambulation activities.