When should the nurse begin working with a patient on ambulation post-surgery?

Beginning ambulation with a patient post-surgery as soon as they are stable and it is medically appropriate is essential for a number of reasons. Early ambulation helps to enhance circulation, promote lung expansion, and decrease the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

Stability includes the patient's vital signs being within acceptable ranges and the patient being alert and responsive. Prioritizing the patient's safety and comfort, ambulation should be initiated at a point where the healthcare team has assessed that it will be beneficial and not detrimental to the patient’s recovery. Engaging the patient in ambulation at the right time after surgery can lead to faster recovery and shorter hospital stays, which are critical goals in postoperative care.

In contrast, starting ambulation immediately upon arrival in the recovery room may be too soon, as patients may still be under the influence of anesthesia or sedation. Waiting for a patient to request assistance or delaying ambulation until a week after surgery can lead to complications and prolonged recovery, both of which are contrary to best practices in postoperative care.