Final answer:
The biggest predictor of post-operative mortality is the patient's overall health status.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biggest predictor of post-operative mortality is the patient's overall health status. Factors such as age, presence of chronic illnesses (such as diabetes or heart disease), and the patient's overall physical fitness can significantly impact the risk of mortality after surgery.
For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that older patients with multiple comorbidities (coexisting medical conditions) had a significantly higher risk of post-operative mortality compared to younger, healthier individuals.
It's important for healthcare professionals to assess the patient's pre-operative health status accurately and take appropriate measures to ensure the best possible outcomes, such as optimizing chronic disease management and providing necessary interventions to minimize perioperative risks.