Postoperative education should be provided because experiences vary between visits.

• A. You must prepare the patient for what they should expect postoperatively because their post-op experience can be different each time.
• B. It is unnecessary to provide verbal or written post-op instructions.
• C. Most patients will have no postoperative discomfort.
• D. Postoperative instructions should be given only if requested.

Answer: (A)

Postoperative education is essential because recovery experiences can vary from one visit to the next. By preparing the patient for what to expect after surgery, you address the reality that pain levels, activity limits, wound healing, and potential complications can differ each time. This proactive guidance helps patients recognize normal versus concerning symptoms, follow pain and medication plans safely, and adhere to activity and wound-care instructions, all of which support smoother recovery and safety.

Providing both verbal and written instructions is part of good practice, and you shouldn’t wait for a patient to ask. The assumption that postoperative discomfort won’t occur is inaccurate, and giving instructions only if requested misses the opportunity to set expectations and prevent problems.