2 Respiratory and Thromboembolic Complications
Learn how postoperative breathing problems and venous blood clots can arise, how to reduce risk safely, and when symptoms require prompt or emergency medical attention.
Breathing and lung expansion after surgery
After surgery, anesthesia, pain, shallow breathing, and reduced mobility can limit lung expansion. This pattern can contribute to , in which air sacs collapse. Effective pain management may make it easier to breathe deeply and cough.
For a stable postoperative patient, support appropriate pain control, deep breathing, coughing, and mobilization as directed. Follow the individual care plan: no single breathing device or intervention replaces it.
Recognizing opioid-related breathing risk
Opioid medicines can contribute to breathing problems. Obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and sedating medicines can increase respiratory risk, so monitoring should reflect the patient's risk, medications, and clinical condition.
A patient who is unusually difficult to awaken and is breathing slowly and shallowly may have . Promptly assess breathing and responsiveness, call for clinical help, and follow emergency-response and opioid-safety protocols. Do not delay until a routine check or give another opioid dose.
VTE risk and prevention
Surgery and limited movement increase the risk of . Major surgery, immobility, and a history of VTE are a concerning combination; a previous clot adds further concern.
Prevention is individualized and may include early movement, prescribed mechanical devices, anticoagulants, or a combination. Follow the patient's orders and clinical condition. The care team weighs the risk of clotting against the risk of bleeding.
Recognizing possible DVT or PE
New swelling, warmth, or tenderness in one calf or limb can indicate , although other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Promptly notify the healthcare team for assessment; do not massage the leg. Symptoms alone do not establish a DVT diagnosis, and clinicians use appropriate tests to diagnose DVT or PE.
A clot in a deep vein can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing . Sudden shortness of breath and chest pain that worsens with a deep breath may signal PE, which can be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical attention immediately for these symptoms.
Actions during recovery and after discharge
VTE can occur after discharge. Report new one-sided limb swelling or pain promptly, and seek emergency help for sudden breathing difficulty or chest pain. Do not treat calf tenderness by massaging the area, and do not stop prescribed clot-prevention measures simply because walking has become possible.
Symptoms raise concern but do not confirm a diagnosis. Follow the prescribed prevention plan and the patient's care instructions; clinical protocols guide assessment and response.