How to care for patients during the perioperative period of appendicitis
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
The perioperative period of appendicitis generally includes preoperative dietary control, preoperative bowel preparation, postoperative vital sign monitoring, postoperative wound care, and postoperative activity guidance. Strict fasting and禁water are required before surgery; patients are typically instructed to stop eating 6–8 hours before the procedure and stop drinking fluids 2–4 hours prior, in order to prevent gastric content reflux and subsequent aspiration during surgery, as well as to reduce gastrointestinal burden.
Perioperative care for appendicitis generally includes preoperative dietary control, preoperative bowel preparation, postoperative vital sign monitoring, wound care, and activity guidance. Specific details are as follows:
1. Preoperative dietary control: Patients must fast from food and liquids before surgery. Typically, eating should stop 6–8 hours before the procedure and drinking should cease 2–4 hours prior. This helps prevent gastric reflux and aspiration during surgery, reduces gastrointestinal burden, and creates optimal surgical conditions. If thirst occurs, patients should inform medical staff who can provide appropriate relief measures.
2. Preoperative bowel preparation: Depending on surgical requirements, some patients may need bowel cleansing through oral laxatives or enemas to clear fecal matter from the intestines, reducing the risk of postoperative infection. Patients should follow healthcare providers' instructions closely and promptly report any discomfort such as abdominal pain or bloating during the process.
3. Postoperative vital sign monitoring: Close monitoring of temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration is required after surgery. Vital signs should be recorded hourly or as directed by the physician. Monitoring helps detect abnormalities such as fever or hypotension early, allowing timely identification of complications like bleeding or infection and ensuring hemodynamic stability.
4. Postoperative wound care: Keep the surgical dressing clean and dry, avoiding contact with water or contamination. Monitor the wound for signs of bleeding, discharge, redness, or swelling. Replace dressings immediately if they become moist to prevent infection. Avoid pulling or tension on the wound to minimize pain and reduce the risk of poor healing.
5. Postoperative activity guidance: Patients may begin turning in bed with assistance from medical staff 6–8 hours after surgery. Within 24 hours, depending on recovery progress, they can gradually get out of bed—starting by sitting and standing at the bedside, then slowly walking. Early mobilization promotes recovery of intestinal motility and helps prevent adhesions. Activity intensity should increase progressively to avoid excessive fatigue.
Throughout the care process, patients must strictly follow medical guidance and should not alter their diet or activity plans independently. If persistent abdominal pain, high fever, abnormal wound drainage, or other concerning symptoms occur after surgery, medical staff should be informed immediately to ensure smooth recovery during the perioperative period.
