Postoperative venous and pulmonary complications
NCLEX-RN glossary · Reduction Of Risk Potential
Definition
The development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) following a surgical procedure, often resulting from immobility and venous stasis.
Postoperative venous and pulmonary complications in plain English
High-fidelity surveillance is required to identify calf pain or sudden tachypnea; these are 'silent killers' that necessitate strict adherence to the Therapy Surveillance Contract. A common mistake is attributing leg discomfort to postoperative positioning or 'normal' muscle soreness without performing a focused vascular assessment for a potential DVT.
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