Post Spinal Surgery Nursing Care

People who suffer from chronic back pain often find relief through surgery. But the postoperative period is not without its challenges. For those who have been discharged from the hospital following spinal surgery but are not yet ready to return to independent living, skilled nursing care may be the best option for ensuring a smooth recovery. 

At Bella Vista Health Center’s five-star skilled nursing facility, patients healing from back surgery receive round-the-clock care and rehabilitative therapies from licensed medical professionals who are committed to helping them make a full recovery and regain their independence as quickly as possible. If you or a loved one is in need of post spinal surgery nursing care, here’s a little bit about what you can expect at Bella Vista.  

Patient monitoring

In the aftermath of spinal surgery, it can take some time for bodily systems to return to normal. During the early recovery process, some patients experience difficulty breathing, and infection or other complications can develop. At Bella Vista Health Center, licensed medical professionals are onsite 24-hours a day to monitor post-op symptoms and address potential complications as they arise. Patient monitoring may include blood tests to ensure safe blood oxygen levels, heart monitors to track heart rate and rhythm, and assessment of vital signs to monitor for infection. 

Pain management 

Pain management is a vital component of the recovery process after spinal surgery. Depending on patient needs, staff may administer medication, provide cold therapy, recommend changes in spinal positioning and spinal movement, or offer electrical stimulation. The alleviation of postoperative pain helps facilitate patient participation in recovery and healing.  

Wound care

After spinal surgery, surgical dressing covers the incision. The medical staff at Bella Vista will clean the incision site daily, change the bandages, and monitor for redness, pain, discharge, or other signs of infection. Patients who do develop infections are typically treated with antibiotics. Stitches or staples are removed around two weeks post-surgery. 

Physical therapy 

Physical therapy is key for a successful spinal surgery and a smooth recovery. Our licensed physical therapists are highly skilled and committed to helping patients restore optimal functioning. Physical therapy begins immediately after spinal surgery to improve blood flow, promote healing, and ensure proper alignment. Physical therapists help patients learn the safest ways to get out of bed, transfer to a chair, walk, and navigate stairs. Treatment plans may include frequent walks, muscle stretches, nerve stretches, and exercises to increase muscle strength and stabilize the spine. The goal of physical therapy is to restore physical functioning. 

Occupational therapy 

Patients at Bella Vista Health Center who are recovering from back surgery also meet regularly with an occupational therapist who addresses the patient’s ability to perform self-care activities and functional tasks. Occupational therapy following spinal surgery may involve instruction of alternate methods for dressing and bathing, often with the use of assistive devices, such as long-handled bath sponges, pants pullers, and sock donners. The goal of occupational therapy is to optimize patient independence. 

Nutritional therapy

Proper nutrition helps strengthen bones and muscles, heal wounds, prevent complications, and decrease recovery time. At Bella Vista Health Center, we have a registered dietician on staff to ensure that patients receive the nutrients they need to support their body’s natural healing process. We provide accommodations for allergies, medical conditions, dietary preferences, and religious needs. Our holistic approach to patient care is part of what sets us apart from other skilled nursing facilities. 

Recovering from spinal surgery? Let us help. 

Patients who come to Bella Vista Health Center to recover from spinal surgery receive top-notch skilled nursing care and rehabilitative therapies from compassionate medical professionals. Our comfortable facility and nurturing atmosphere can be your home away from home while you heal and regain your strength. There are countless reasons we maintain a five-star rating for excellence in patient care—come see for yourself! For more information on our skilled nursing and rehabilitative services, give us a call at 619-399-7920 today.