IText For ICOUGH: Improving Ambulation of Surgical Patients Through Text Messaging

A text message will be sent once daily (between noon and 3p) to remind participants to ambulate at least 3 times each day while hospitalized.

Education will be provided about the ICOUGH protocol which includes: Incentive spirometry (a breathing device that expands the lungs), Coughing and deep breathing, Oral hygiene (for example using a toothbrush), Understanding (patient and family education), Getting out of bed at least three times daily, and Head-of-bed elevation to prevent choking.