A patient on the first morning after major abdominal surgery has a temperature of 38.1 degrees Celsius and reduced air entry at both bases. Which is the most likely cause at this stage?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Atelectasis
- Step 1: Early postoperative fever has different causes from late fever.
- Step 2: Atelectasis is common in the first 48 hours, and leaks, abscesses and wound infections usually appear after day 5.
Answer
Atelectasis.
Why not the others: Pelvic abscess: An abscess forms over a week or more. Deep wound infection: Wound infection usually appears from day 5 onwards. Anastomotic leak: A leak typically presents around days 5 to 7.
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