Does postoperative care only apply to major surgery?
No, postoperative care does not only apply to major surgery. While larger operations often need more support, even smaller procedures can leave someone sore, tired, or less able to manage normal routines for a while. A day surgery patient may still need help with meals, medicine prompts, personal care, or simply reassurance while the effects of anaesthetic wear off. The amount of support needed depends on the person as much as the operation. Someone older, living alone, or already coping with limited mobility may benefit from care after what seems like a straightforward procedure. The goal of postoperative care is not to assume a fixed level of need, but to respond to how recovery is affecting day-to-day life in real terms once the person is back home.
