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Postoperative care

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Principles at this time include:

  • adequate inspiratory oxygen concentration
  • adequate tidal volume
  • adequate analgesia

The best setting for ensuring these aims is usually ITU. Positive pressure ventilation may be required with high levels of inspired oxygen. Early physiotherapy and ambulation reduce the risk of chest infection and venous thrombosis respectively. Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia will minimise the risk associated with unpredictable intramuscular absorption of opioids.

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