What role does a nurse have in educating patients about postoperative care?

The role of a nurse in educating patients about postoperative care primarily focuses on ensuring that patients understand the signs of complications and proper wound care. This education is crucial for promoting patient safety and encouraging adherence to recovery protocols.

By explaining signs of complications, such as redness, swelling, increased pain, or unusual discharge at the surgical site, nurses empower patients to recognize potential issues early. This proactive approach can lead to timely medical intervention, which is essential in preventing more serious complications from arising.

Additionally, providing information on wound care helps patients understand how to properly care for their surgical site, including instructions on keeping the area clean and dry, changing dressings, and knowing when to contact a healthcare provider. This education not only aids in healing but also helps patients feel more confident and involved in their recovery process.

In contrast, the other options outlined do not align with the nursing role in postoperative care education. Non-medical opinions are not part of a nurse's professional responsibility, and prescribing medications or performing surgeries falls within the purview of physicians and other licensed practitioners. Thus, the focus on providing detailed and relevant educational support regarding complications and wound care illustrates the critical function nurses serve in the postoperative recovery phase.