Following a total hip replacement, which vital sign is likely to increase due to postoperative factors?

Following a total hip replacement, an increase in pulse rate is expected due to various postoperative factors. When a patient undergoes any surgical procedure, the body responds in multiple ways as part of the recovery process. The stress of surgery, pain, blood loss, and the effects of anesthesia can all lead to an increased heart rate as the body tries to maintain adequate oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.

In the immediate postoperative period, factors such as anxiety or discomfort from the surgery can also stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a higher pulse rate. It's important for healthcare providers to monitor this vital sign as part of post-surgical care, as significant deviations can indicate complications such as pain or inadequate fluid volume.

While temperature, blood pressure, and pain are also vital signs to monitor after surgery, an increase in pulse rate directly correlates with the body's acute physiological responses to surgical trauma, fluid shifts, and potential pain levels. Hence, it is more likely to show measurable changes shortly after the procedure compared to the other options.