Should a client who underwent craniotomy perform turning, coughing, and deep breathing exercises?

After a craniotomy, it is essential for the client to engage in specific activities to promote recovery while considering their condition and preventing complications. Turning the patient every two hours helps to prevent pressure ulcers and maintains lung expansion, reducing the risk of atelectasis. Deep breathing exercises are crucial post-surgery to enhance lung function and clear secretions.

However, coughing can increase intracranial pressure, which is particularly concerning after a craniotomy. It is generally advised to limit or avoid vigorous coughing during the early recovery period to protect the surgical site and maintain stability in the patient's condition. Therefore, allowing turning every two hours while permitting deep breathing exercises every hour, but restricting coughing, aligns with the need to provide care that prioritizes the client's safety and promotes proper healing without compromising their neurological status. This approach ensures that the individual remains as comfortable and stable as possible while still facilitating recovery.