What you need to know about getting out of bed after abdominal surgery

After abdominal surgery, many patients face the challenge of getting out of bed safely without straining the wound. Improperly getting out of bed can exacerbate wound pain and even impede healing. Mastering proper techniques for getting out of bed and wound care can effectively alleviate discomfort and accelerate recovery.

Why does getting out of bed after abdominal surgery require special techniques?

Regardless of the size of the incision, abdominal surgery will damage the abdominal wall muscles and tissues. These muscles are responsible for the primary force required for daily movements such as getting up. When the wound has not yet healed after surgery, sudden abdominal force can increase intra-abdominal pressure, directly pulling on the sutures and causing severe pain. The suture layer inside the wound also needs to be protected; excessive force can cause internal tears and increase the risk of complications. Postural hypotension after anesthesia and bed rest is also a factor to consider; suddenly getting up can cause dizziness or even falls.

What is the correct procedure for waking up?

First, adjust the bed to a 45-degree tilt. If there is no electric bed, use pillows to prop up your back. Turn sideways and toward the edge of the bed. Bend your knees first, support yourself with the arm on the non-surgical side, and slowly turn your entire body as a whole to avoid twisting your waist. This process should be completed within 10 seconds, and do not flip over quickly. Use the elbow of your lower arm to support the bed behind you, and use your upper arm to assist in pushing, slowly lifting your upper body. The key point is to rely on arm strength rather than abdominal muscle strength. If you feel the wound being pulled, stop immediately. After sitting firmly on the edge of the bed, place your feet flat on the ground, support the edge of the bed or armrests with your hands, and slowly stand up with the strength of your legs. After standing, adapt for 30 seconds before starting to walk to prevent dizziness and falls. Maintain steady breathing throughout the process to avoid holding your breath and increasing abdominal pressure.

How to protect the wound from traction?

In addition to caring for the wound itself, if you cough or sneeze, gently press the wound area with your palm to provide reverse pressure to offset the impact. Keep your knees bent when turning over, and turn as a whole to avoid twisting. Before getting up, you can wear a medical abdominal belt to provide external support, but it should not be too tight, and it should be appropriate to be able to insert a finger. Avoid sudden bending movements, and bend your knees and squat when picking up objects. Do not lift objects weighing more than 5 kilograms within 2 weeks after surgery, and avoid strenuous exercise within 4 weeks.

What should I pay attention to when caring for my wound?

Keeping the wound dry and clean is crucial. Avoid showering for 48 hours after surgery and use waterproof dressings for protection. Keep showers to a low temperature and limit them to 10 minutes or less. Use a mild, neutral shower gel when cleaning, avoiding direct rinsing of the wound. After washing, gently pat dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing. Observe the wound; mild redness and swelling are normal. However, widespread redness, increased exudate, an odor, or fever may indicate infection and require prompt medical attention.

What misunderstandings should be avoided?

Common misconceptions include excessive rest and a fear of movement. In fact, moderate early activity can prevent blood clots and adhesions, and patients should be instructed to get out of bed and move around as early as the first day after surgery. Another misconception is using an overly tight abdominal binder, believing that tighter is better. This can actually impair blood circulation and hinder healing. Some people also believe that scabs on wounds are a sign of good healing. Modern wound care emphasizes a moist environment; excessive dryness can actually delay healing. Self-applying ointments or removing dressings is also unacceptable, as it can introduce infection.

Recovery after abdominal surgery requires patience and proper technique. Getting out of bed, though simple, can directly impact wound healing and recovery. Mastering scientific techniques and avoiding common mistakes can help you recover more smoothly. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Remember that gradual progress is key; don't rush and give your body ample time to recover. For more information on Innomed® Super Absorbent Non-adhesive, refer to the Previous Articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; you can contact us wholeheartedly. At longterm medical, we transform this data by innovating and developing products that make life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia