What should a nurse monitor for signs of respiratory distress in a postoperative patient?

Monitoring for signs of respiratory distress in a postoperative patient is crucial, as surgery can significantly impact respiratory function. An increased respiratory rate is often one of the first indicators of respiratory distress. When a patient is experiencing difficulty breathing or inadequate ventilation, their body compensates by increasing the rate of breathing in an attempt to take in more oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.

Additionally, altered mental status can be a sign that the brain is not receiving enough oxygen, indicating that respiratory function is compromised. Confusion, agitation, or lethargy can all be manifestations of insufficient oxygenation or increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Therefore, both increased respiratory rate and changes in mental status are critical signs for a nurse to monitor after surgery to ensure the patient is maintaining adequate respiratory function and to intervene promptly if distress is identified.

In contrast, decreased heart rate and increased blood pressure may suggest different physiological responses and do not directly indicate respiratory distress. Increased appetite and energy levels are not reliable indicators of respiratory function, particularly immediately following surgery when patients may still be recovering from anesthesia or the effects of medication. Lastly, a stable respiratory rate and normal oxygen saturation are signs of adequate respiratory function, not indicators of distress, and would not typically warrant concern.