Demand of hospitalized surgical patients information: a descriptive and prospective study

Aim: to identify post-operative complications in patients undergoing surgical procedures in a hospital of medium complexity, the difficulties experienced in self-care during the post-operative period and the guidance provided in the discharge process. Method: a descriptive study, quantitative prospective undertaken in patients who underwent surgical treatment in a hospital of Parana. Results: in a total of 110 patients, 70 (64%) participated, and of these, 57 (87%) had some type of complication and 67 (95%) said they had received instructions for discharge. Al though 38 (54%) inquiries did not have doubts about self-care, 26 (37%) reported doubts about changing the dressing and 6 (9%) about the correct use of medication. As for the professional advisor, 45 (64%) were instructed by nurses, 40 (58%) by doctors and 4 (5%) by other professionals. Conclusion: It showed the need for more efficient educational actions by health professionals in the peri-operative period.