A 57-year-old patient who is being admitted for an appendectomy.The patient is a 2-pack-a-day smoker,has a history of diabetes,and is 20 pounds overweight.Which of the following potential postoperative complications should be the nurse's highest concern for prevention?

A) Atelectasis
B) Negative nitrogen balance
C) Delayed wound healing
D) Hyperthermia

Question

antonett payton · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : A, Explanation :  There is a significant association between smoking and postoperative pulmonary complications,specifically pneumonia and atelectasis.Chronic smoking increases the amount and thickness of mucous secretions in the lungs.Patients who are obese are more susceptible to developing atelectasis.Hyperthermia is incorrect because general anesthetics inhibit shivering,a protective reflex to maintain body temperature,and anesthetics cause vasodilation,which results in heat loss.Malnourished patients are more likely to have poor tolerance of anesthesia,negative nitrogen balance,delayed postoperative recovery,infection,and delayed wound healing.

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