Surgery is a major trauma to your body, even if the procedure itself is minor. Any time a doctor must cut your body open, your body will need time to heal and recover. Depending on the nature of your injuries, your recovery can be lengthy and painful, and it is critical that you receive adequate post-surgical care. Before you even have your procedure, your Oregon doctor should explain to you the risks, what to expect after surgery and how to lower your risk of complications.
However, some patients do experience post-surgical complications, despite the best efforts of the doctors. There are also times when surgery patients may experience post-procedure issues as a result of inadequate medical care. If you suspect that what you are experiencing after surgery is a result of negligent medical care, you do not have to remain silent.
What to expect
It is normal to experience some pain after having surgery. In most cases, one can manage pain and infection prevention with medication. However, severe pain that worsens or continues could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important that you receive vigilant monitoring and proper care during your recovery. Other types of common post-surgical complications include:
- Confusion or chills while still coming off anesthesia
- Breathing problems or the urge to cough when waking up
- Difficulty relieving yourself
- Loss of muscle mass and physical coordination
- Onset of an infection, possibly at the surgery site
- Development of blood clots after being in bed for an extended time
It is the responsibility of your care provider to ensure that you receive help and medical attention during the days and weeks following your procedure. This includes cleaning of wounds, administration of pain medication and antibiotics, helping the patient get to the bathroom, helping the patient walk and more. If you do not get proper care after your surgery, it can be a type of medical negligence.
Are you a victim?
If you believe that you are a victim of any type of medical negligence on the part of your surgeon, doctors, nurses or other care providers, you do not have to remain silent. You have the right to pursue justice through a malpractice claim. To learn about the legal options available to you, you may benefit from seeking a professional opinion about your case as soon as you discover a problem with your surgery recovery.