CFA Postoperative Care & Complications Flashcards

What is the classic symptom triad of pulmonary embolism (PE)?

Answer: Dyspnea, chest pain, hemoptysis

The classic triad of PE is sudden dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, and hemoptysis, though all three are not always present simultaneously.

What are the three components of Virchow's triad that predispose patients to DVT?

Answer: Stasis, hypercoagulability, endothelial injury

Virchow's triad identifies venous stasis, hypercoagulability, and endothelial injury as the three conditions that together promote deep vein thrombosis.

What is the most effective DVT prophylaxis for postoperative patients?

Answer: Sequential compression devices (SCDs) combined with early ambulation

Sequential compression devices reduce venous stasis mechanically, and early ambulation promotes venous return, together providing the most effective non-pharmacologic DVT prevention.

Which postoperative complication most commonly causes fever on days 1–2 after surgery?

Answer: Atelectasis

Atelectasis caused by shallow breathing and retained secretions is the most common cause of low-grade fever in the first 48 hours after surgery.

In the 5 W's of postoperative fever, what does 'Water' refer to and when does it typically occur?

Answer: Urinary tract infection on days 3–5

'Water' refers to a urinary tract infection, typically presenting on postoperative days 3–5, often associated with indwelling catheter use.

What postoperative complication is most directly associated with prolonged indwelling urinary catheter use?

Answer: Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)

Prolonged Foley catheter use is the primary risk factor for CAUTI, one of the most common hospital-acquired infections.