Background:

colorectal surgery remains associated with the risk of morbidity and mortality, relating to the emergence of complications. Functional Respiratory Reeducation (RFR) exercises performed by rehabilitation nurses, become essential to prevent/minimize postoperative complications.

Objectives:

to evaluate the impact of RFR in people with indication for colorectal surgery, in the values ​​of vital capacity (VC) and peripheral O2 saturation (SpO2) and describe the skills acquired after the application of a preoperative RFR program.

Methodology:

descriptive observational study, with a convenience sample of people with colorectal pathology who underwent a preoperative RFR program in a Hospital and University Center in the central region of Portugal.

Results:

the sample consisted of 78 people. Respiratory parameters such as CV and SpO2 were evaluated, as well as the assessment of acquired skills. The average number of RFR sessions per user was 3.97, getting a positive variation of SpO2 in 46 and a positive variation of VC in 41. With the exception of 3 people, most acquired abilities recommended at different levels.

Conclusion:

the gains obtained in the preoperative preparation of people in respiratory function and capacities to deal with pain are visible. These results are important for the prevention of respiratory complications in the postoperative period.