Post Op Complications

Question 1

Shock-(hypovolemic d/t blood pressure or fluid loss)

Answer 1

Signs: hypotension, tachycardia, cold, clammy skin, restless

Treatment: Call physician, trendelenberg postion, administer O2 + increase fluids per physician’s order.

Question 2

Hemorrhage (from surgical site- may be external or internal)

Answer 2

Sign: hypotension, tachycardia, cold, clammy skin, restless bright red bleeding from the surgical site, wound swelling.

Treatment: call physician, apply pressure to site, treat as above for shock)

Question 3

Thrombophlebitis (from venous stasis post-op)

Answer 3

Sign: warmth, redness, calf pain, swelling

Treatment: monitor for pulmonary embolus, do not massage calf or apply TEDS/SCD to affected limb. Administer heparin as ordered.

Question 4

Paralytic ileus (from manipulation of intestines during surgery, hypokalemia)

Answer 4

Sign: fullness, nausea, anorexia, abdominal distention.

Treatment: NG tube (when ordered), ambulation, possible TPN through a central line.

Question 5

Respiratory Distress: (immediately post-op from removal of endotracheal tube)

Answer 5

Sign: acute respiratory distress.

Treatment: O2 + possible need to re-intubate patient.

Question 6

Atelectasis: (prolonged anesthesia, shallow respirations)

Answer 6

Sign: shortness of breath, crackles, cough, fever

Treatment: incentive spirometer, ambulation, TCDB, administer antibiotic if ordered.