Question

A nurse is evaluating the client following surgery. Which of the following findings indicate that the client is experiencing a potential complication of surgery that requires immediate follow-up?

a) Mild swelling at the incision site
b) Temperature of 99.5°F (37.5°C)
c) Increased pain controlled by prescribed analgesics
d) Sudden onset of shortness of breath

Answer 1

The potential complication of surgery that requires immediate follow-up is the sudden onset of shortness of breath. Mild swelling, a low-grade fever, and increased pain can be normal post-surgical findings.

Step-by-step explanation:

The potential complication of surgery that requires immediate follow-up is the sudden onset of shortness of breath (option d). Shortness of breath can indicate a serious condition such as a pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage in the lung arteries.

Mild swelling at the incision site (option a) is a common post-surgical finding and can be managed with elevation and ice packs. A temperature of 99.5°F (37.5°C) (option b) is within the normal range and not necessarily indicative of a complication.

Increased pain controlled by prescribed analgesics (option c) is expected in the immediate post-operative period. However, if pain becomes uncontrolled or worsens, it may indicate a complication that requires attention, but it is not an immediate concern compared to sudden shortness of breath.