On the second day after abdominal surgery, a patient develops increasing abdominal distention, repeated vomiting and no passage of flatus. Which finding should the nurse report promptly?
Correct answer: B. Increasing distention with vomiting and absent flatus
- A. Mild incisional tenderness during movement
- B. Increasing distention with vomiting and absent flatus
- C. A small amount of serous drainage on the dressing
- D. Reduced appetite during the first postoperative meal
Explanation
Progressive distention, vomiting and failure to pass flatus suggest postoperative ileus or another bowel complication and require prompt review. Mild tenderness, limited appetite and small serous drainage can occur during uncomplicated recovery.
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About Perioperative Nursing
Covers preoperative assessment, informed consent, surgical preparation, anaesthesia, intraoperative safety and postoperative recovery. It includes sterile technique, surgical positioning, wound and drain care, pain and nausea management, fluid balance, prevention of infection and recognition of complications such as haemorrhage, atelectasis and shock.
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