What postoperative complication can arise from prolonged bed rest?

Prolonged bed rest after surgery can lead to several postoperative complications, with pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) being among the most significant risks. When a patient remains immobile, the respiratory system can become compromised. This immobility decreases lung expansion, leading to stagnation of secretions, which can increase the risk of pneumonia due to poor airway clearance.

In conjunction with this, prolonged immobility can also cause blood to pool in the lower extremities, increasing the risk of clot formation. DVT can develop when blood flow is slowed in the deep veins of the legs. A blood clot can potentially dislodge and lead to serious complications, such as a pulmonary embolism, which occurs when the clot travels to the lungs.

Both pneumonia and DVT are critical considerations in postoperative care, and healthcare providers often employ early mobilization, respiratory exercises, and prophylactic measures (such as anticoagulants) to reduce the incidence of these complications. This understanding emphasizes the importance of encouraging activity and mobility during the postoperative period to mitigate these risks.