Postoperative hemorrhage
NCLEX-RN glossary · Reduction Of Risk Potential
Definition
Acute blood loss following a surgical procedure that can lead to hypovolemic shock if not immediately identified and managed.
Postoperative hemorrhage in plain English
It requires urgent volume resuscitation, direct pressure to the site, and potential surgical re-exploration to stop the bleeding. The tempting mistake is failing to inspect the surgical dressing or drain output for internal bleeding cues when the heart rate begins to trend upward during vital sign monitoring.
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