What is a common sign that may indicate a postoperative complication?

A persistent fever is a common sign that may indicate a postoperative complication. After surgery, the body is in a healing state, and while a mild fever can be a normal response to surgery due to inflammation and trauma, a persistent fever—one that remains elevated for an extended period—can raise concerns about potential complications such as infection, abscess formation, or other systemic issues. Monitoring a patient's temperature is crucial in the postoperative setting to identify any deviations from expected recovery and ensure prompt management of any complications that may arise.

In contrast, an increased appetite, severe headache, or increased energy levels are not typically indicative of postoperative complications. An increased appetite following surgery can be a positive sign of recovery, whereas a severe headache can be caused by various factors unrelated to surgery. Likewise, feeling increased energy may reflect a positive recovery trajectory. However, these signs do not specifically signal complications as clearly as a persistent fever does.