What is a potential complication of poor postoperative pain management?

Decreased mobility is a significant potential complication of poor postoperative pain management. When patients experience inadequate pain control after surgery, they may be reluctant or unable to engage in movement or physical activity. This can lead to a variety of negative outcomes, including prolonged recovery times, increased risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and delayed healing. Mobility is crucial in the postoperative phase, as movement helps to promote circulation, prevents complications associated with immobility, and aids in the overall recovery process.

Other options suggest positive outcomes, such as increased patient satisfaction, reduced risk of nausea, and increased appetite, but these are unlikely to occur in the context of poor pain management. In fact, effective pain control is essential for patient satisfaction and can help alleviate nausea and promote appetite, further underscoring the importance of addressing pain effectively after surgery.