Which of the following best describes the primary goal of nursing care for post-operative patients?

The primary goal of nursing care for post-operative patients is to ensure patient safety and promote healing. This encompasses a holistic approach to recovery that prioritizes monitoring vital signs, managing potential complications, and addressing the patient’s physical and emotional well-being. By focusing on safety, nurses can prevent issues such as infections, thrombosis, or respiratory complications, which are critical for a successful recovery. Promoting healing involves not only physical care but also supporting the patient’s overall comfort and understanding of their recovery process.

While reducing hospital stay duration and facilitating quick discharge are important considerations, these goals are secondary to the primary focus on patient safety and healing. A patient who is safe and healing properly may naturally progress toward a timely discharge, but the overarching priority remains the patient's well-being. Additionally, while minimizing discomfort is certainly a component of post-operative care, it should not be the only focus. Proper nursing care addresses safety and promotes comprehensive healing, which ultimately contributes to minimizing discomfort as well.