Postoperative nausea and vomiting

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication that occurs after surgery. It is characterized by feelings of nausea and the urge to vomit following a surgical procedure. PONV can be distressing for patients and can delay recovery and discharge from the hospital.

Causes

PONV is caused by a combination of factors, including the type of surgery, the use of certain anesthetic agents, and individual patient characteristics. Anesthesia is a major contributor to PONV, with certain types of anesthesia being more likely to cause PONV than others. Other factors that can contribute to PONV include the duration and type of surgery, patient age, gender, and history of motion sickness or previous PONV.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors have been identified for PONV. These include female gender, history of motion sickness or PONV, non-smoking status, and the use of postoperative opioids. The risk of PONV is also higher in certain types of surgeries, such as gynecological, ear, nose and throat, and breast surgeries.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of PONV involves a combination of medications and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications used for PONV prevention and treatment include antiemetics, such as ondansetron, and corticosteroids. Non-pharmacological interventions include adequate hydration, avoidance of opioids, and the use of certain techniques during surgery to minimize the risk of PONV.

Impact

PONV can have a significant impact on patient recovery and satisfaction. It can delay discharge from the hospital, increase healthcare costs, and negatively affect patient quality of life. Therefore, effective prevention and treatment of PONV is crucial in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.

See Also

• Anesthesia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Surgery
• Antiemetics