[Solved]: Post-Operative Spinal Surgery Care: Impact of…

Post-Operative Spinal Surgery Care: Impact of Staffing Shortages on Patient Outcomes In patients undergoing spinal surgery (P), how does implementation of a standardized post-operative care protocol with adequate staffing (I) compared to understaffed care with inconsistent protocol adherence (O) affect the incidence of post-operative complications and length of hospital stay (T) within the first 14 days after surgery? The post-operative care process for spinal surgery patients begins immediately after surgery completion in the recovery room and extends through discharge, typically spanning 3-14 days depending on procedure complexity. This critical period requires systematic assessment and intervention to prevent complications that can significantly impact patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Immediate post-operative phase (0-24 hours): Nurses conduct hourly neurovascular checks to assess circulation, sensation, and movement in extremities, documenting findings in the electronic health record. Early mobility phase (24-72 hours): Physical therapists and nursing staff assist patients with progressive ambulation, beginning with dangling at bedside and advancing to hallway walking three times daily as tolerated. Respiratory management (throughout hospitalization): Respiratory therapists and nurses guide patients through incentive spirometry exercises every 2 hours while awake, documenting volumes achieved and patient effort. Swallowing assessment (24-48 hours post-extubation): Speech therapists perform standardized swallow evaluations before advancing diet, particularly in cervical spine procedures or cases with prolonged intubation. Discharge preparation phase (begins at 72 hours or when clinically appropriate): Multidisciplinary team coordinates discharge planning, including patient education, medication reconciliation, and arrangement of home services or rehabilitation placement. find journal articles within last 5 years to support. High level articles