Pyrexia

Question 1

Post-operative pyrexia on day 0-2 is likely due to?

Answer 1

Atelectasis

Question 2

T/F. If pyrexia during a transfusion, then the transfusion should always be stopped.

Answer 2

False. Of a low grade transfusion reaction, then the RATE of the transfusion can be decreased.

Question 3

Causes of post-op pyrexia?

Answer 3

May be classified as Early (within 24 hours) or Late (>36 hours).

Early causes: atelectasis, VTE transfusion reaction, drugs (e.g. misoprostol), peritoneal soiling (occult anastamotic leak or bowel injury), urinoma (ureteric or bladder injury).

Late causes: All causes of early postop pyrexia, wound infection, haematoma, pelvic collection (blood/pus), UTI, pneumonia, thrombophlebitis

Question 4

Causes of early postop tachycardia?

Answer 4

Blood loss
Dehydration
Poor pain control
VTE
Myocardial infarction

Question 5

Benefits of rectal metronidazole?

Answer 5

As effective as IV metronidazole
Cheaper than iv metronidazole

Question 6

T/F. Antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the risk of postoperative febrile morbidity.

Answer 6

True

Question 7

T/F. Antibiotic prophylaxis is most effective if administered within the 2 hours prior to the abdominal incision.

Answer 7

True