Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
Hip Fracture Surgery: Hospital Recovery
After surgery, you'll be moved to the PACU (postanesthesia care unit). This is often called the recovery room. You'll stay there until you're fully awake-often a few hours. Then you'll be moved to your hospital room.
Right After Surgery
After surgery, you may feel groggy, thirsty, or cold. Your throat may be sore. For a few days, you may also have:
An IV (intravenous) line to give you fluids and medication.
A catheter (tube) to drain urine from your bladder.
Tubes to drain your incision.
Boots or special stockings on your legs. These help prevent blood clots.
An incentive spirometer (breathing device). Breathing through the spirometer helps prevent lung infections.
Pain Control After Surgery
You will likely have some pain after surgery. To help you feel better, your nurse will give you pain medication. You may also have a pump that lets you give yourself pain medication. Even with medication, some pain is normal. But tell your nurse if you are very uncomfortable. Be aware that some pain medications can cause confusion or disorientation for a time. They can also cause constipation.
Starting Hospital Rehabilitation
Soon after surgery, a therapist will begin teaching you basic exercises. You'll also learn how to protect your hip while it heals. Even though you'll have help, much of the work is up to you. So try to walk and move around as much as you can. It may seem hard at first. But it's the best thing you can do for recovery. The more active you are, the sooner you'll be prepared to go home.