Why is it important to assess the surgical site regularly?

Regular assessment of the surgical site is crucial to identify signs of infection or hematoma. These complications can significantly affect a patient's recovery and overall outcome. An infection can lead to severe consequences, including sepsis, prolonged hospitalization, and additional surgeries. Similarly, a hematoma—localized bleeding outside of blood vessels—can increase pressure at the surgical site, potentially compromising healing and leading to further complications.

While ensuring the site is healing properly is also an important aspect of post-operative care, identifying immediate issues like infection or hematoma is often prioritized because these can develop rapidly and require prompt intervention. Monitoring for anesthesia complications and checking for surgical errors are essential but typically fall outside the direct surveillance of the surgical site itself, highlighting the importance of focused assessments in the early post-operative period.