Impaired surgical recovery – NANDA Diagnoses

NANDA Nursing Diagnose - Impaired surgical recovery

Código del diagnóstico: '00465
Dominio del diagnóstico: Domain 4 - Activity - rest
Clase del diagnóstico: Class 3 - Energy balance

The NANDA-I diagnosis of 'Impaired surgical recovery' is a critical consideration in nursing practice, highlighting the complexities surrounding a patient's recovery following surgical interventions. This diagnosis encompasses a variety of physiological and psychological challenges that can significantly extend the recuperation period, impacting not just patient outcomes but also overall healthcare resource utilization. Recognizing and addressing this diagnosis is integral to optimizing recovery trajectories and enhancing the quality of care provided to surgical patients.

This exploration will delve deeply into the NANDA-I diagnosis of 'Impaired surgical recovery,' providing a comprehensive understanding of its definition and relevant components. The post will dissect the defining characteristics that indicate barriers to recovery and examine the related factors that contribute to prolonged recuperation times. Additionally, you'll gain insight into at-risk populations and associated conditions, equipping you with the knowledge needed to improve patient care and outcomes in this critical area of nursing practice.

Definition of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The diagnosis of 'Impaired surgical recovery' refers to a condition characterized by delays or complications in the healing and recuperation processes following a surgical procedure, which may manifest through both physiological and psychological challenges that hinder an individual's return to their baseline functional health status. This diagnosis encompasses a range of symptoms and signs, including prolonged fatigue, difficulty in resuming normal activities, inadequate appetite, and impediments in the healing of the surgical site, all of which can extend the overall recovery timeline and may result in an increased length of hospital stay. Contributing factors can be multifaceted, including pre-existing medical conditions, psychological distress such as excessive anxiety or fear of movement, and physiological issues like poor nutritional status or persistent pain. Those affected may also exhibit varying degrees of impaired mobility and require additional assistance for self-care, showcasing a profound impact on their quality of life and overall well-being during the postoperative period.

Defining Characteristics of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" is identified by its defining characteristics. These are explained below:

Dificultad para reanudar actividades The inability to return to daily activities is a critical sign of impaired surgical recovery. When patients report difficulty in resuming their routines, including work, exercise, or social engagements, it highlights the impact of surgical intervention on their overall well-being. This characteristic can be quantitatively assessed through self-reported surveys or activity logs, revealing the extent to which surgery has limited their functional capacity. This limitation often correlates with psychological distress, further complicating their recovery process and signaling the need for enhanced post-operative support.
Dificultad para moverse Limitations in physical mobility following surgery are strong indicators of impaired recovery. Patients often experience stiffness, weakness, or pain which restricts their ability to perform basic movements such as walking or getting out of bed. Clinically, healthcare providers can assess mobility restrictions using standardized mobility scales or through direct observation. This characteristic is essential to monitor, as it can significantly delay recovery and contribute to complications such as pressure ulcers or venous thromboembolism.
Tiempo excesivo de recuperación An extended recovery time beyond expected norms serves as a red flag for potential complications or underlying issues. It raises concerns about patient adherence to post-operative care, the surgical method used, or factors such as infections that may be impeding healing. This characteristic is particularly significant as it can be monitored objectively through clinical records, indicating whether patients meet expected postoperative recovery benchmarks.
Estancia hospitalaria prolongada A hospital stay that exceeds anticipated duration often signals complications during recovery, such as infections, delayed wound healing, or inadequate pain management. Extended hospitalization can not only increase healthcare costs but also expose patients to hospital-acquired infections and other risks. This characteristic is important for healthcare teams to flag early, prompting critical evaluations of the patient's postoperative care plan.
Fatiga Persistent fatigue that is disproportionate to the usual expectations during recovery presents an important factor in evaluating surgical recovery. Patients often report a profound tiredness that does not improve with rest, suggesting underlying issues such as anemia, inadequate nutritional intake, or sleep disturbances. Clinicians can use standardized fatigue assessments to quantify this phenomenon, which can hinder participation in rehabilitation and delay recovery progress.
Apetito inadecuado Changes in appetite, whether increased or decreased, can significantly hinder recovery. Nutritional deficits due to inadequate appetite can impair wound healing, resistance to infection, and overall recovery. Health providers should frequently assess dietary intake and consider nutritional supplementation if significant changes are noted. This characteristic can be visualized through dietary recall assessments or food diaries, providing clarity on the patient's nutritional status during recovery.
Interrupción de la curación del área quirúrgica Compromised wound healing is a critical concern post-surgery, and it may manifest through signs like increased redness, warmth, drainage, or separation of the surgical site. Assessing the surgical site regularly is vital as delayed healing can lead to infections, further complications, and increased recovery time. This characteristic allows healthcare members to identify at-risk patients early and initiate timely interventions to promote healing.
Percepción de necesidad de más tiempo para recuperarse A patient's subjective perception that they require more time to regain their normal state post-surgery is a telling sign of impaired surgical recovery. It reflects the psychological aspect of recovery, indicating potential anxiety and dissatisfaction with progress. This perception can influence their engagement and compliance with recovery protocols, making it an essential consideration for practitioners when devising support strategies.
Malestar físico Ongoing pain or discomfort is a significant barrier to effective recovery. Post-surgical pain can impact mobility, sleep quality, emotional well-being, and overall participation in rehabilitation. Assessment of pain using appropriate scales is critical to understand its intensity, characteristics, and response to analgesics, thus guiding necessary adjustments in pain management strategies.
Postergación de la reanudación del trabajo The delay in returning to work serves as a significant indicator of recovery challenges. Patients may face barriers due to lingering pain, mobility issues, or complications. Understanding the timeline of this return and discussing work-related expectations can give insight into the adequacy of recovery, and it also determines the need for occupational therapy or adjustments to their working conditions.
Asistencia para el autocuidado The need for assistance in performing daily self-care activities can suggest impaired recovery. This dependency indicates limitations in physical or cognitive abilities, reflecting potential complications or unexpected surgical outcomes. Clinically, this can be measured through the assessment of Activities of Daily Living (ADL), helping to tailor personalized rehabilitation strategies focused on enhancing independence.

Related Factors (Etiology) of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The etiology of "Impaired surgical recovery" is explored through its related factors. These are explained below:

Delirio Changes in cognitive function can manifest as confusion or disorientation, leading to difficulties in communication and participation in post-surgical care. This can hinder the patient's ability to follow rehabilitation protocols, delayed recovery, and impact overall surgical outcomes.
Ansiedad excesiva Excessive anxiety can result from fear of surgical outcomes or the surgical process itself. This heightened state of stress can lead to physiological responses such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, which may impede healing, negatively affect the patient's ability to engage in therapeutic activities, and prolong recovery time.
Miedo a moverse Fear of movement post-surgery can significantly limit a patient's mobility, leading to complications such as muscle atrophy, deep vein thrombosis, and delayed wound healing. A reduction in physical activity may exacerbate feelings of pain and contribute to a cycle of inactivity that hinders recovery.
Movilidad física afectada Muscle weakness or inefficiency in coordination often poses barriers in post-operative recovery. Patients lacking physical strength may struggle with ambulation and basic self-care tasks, which can prolong hospital stays and increase dependency on healthcare providers, ultimately delaying recovery.
Aumento del nivel de glucosa en sangre Elevated blood glucose levels, particularly in diabetic patients, can interfere with the healing process. High glucose may impair immune function and increase the risk of infection at the surgical site, further complicating recovery efforts and prolonging healing times.
Adquisición ineficaz de conocimientos sobre salud Insufficient understanding of post-surgical care can lead to poor compliance with instructions, resulting in complications such as wound infections or inadequate self-monitoring. Ensuring effective patient education is crucial for optimizing recovery outcomes and preventing setbacks.
Manejo ineficaz del sobrepeso Obesity is associated with an increased risk of surgical complications, including respiratory issues, infection rates, and delayed wound healing. The physical burden of excess weight can inhibit mobility and motivation, compounding challenges in the recovery process.
Desnutrición Nutritional deficiencies can severely affect wound healing and immune response, prolonging recovery. A patient's inability to meet their nutritional requirements can stem from various factors, including appetite changes or dietary restrictions, necessitating close monitoring and nutritional interventions.
Respuesta emocional negativa al resultado quirúrgico Negative emotional responses to surgical outcomes, such as feelings of disappointment or fear, can adversely affect both mental and physical health. Emotional distress can exacerbate physical symptoms and lead to decreased engagement in recovery-focused activities.
Estrategias pasivas para afrontar el dolor Passive pain management strategies often lead to inadequate pain control, resulting in delayed participation in rehabilitation efforts. Effective pain management is essential for facilitating mobility and physical therapy engagement, both of which are critical for recovery.
Náuseas persistentes Persistent nausea can hinder a patient's ability to consume necessary food and medication, complicating recovery efforts significantly. Managing gastrointestinal symptoms is vital to ensure that patients can tolerate oral nutrition and medication regimens following surgery.
Dolor persistente Ongoing pain post-surgery can significantly inhibit participation in rehabilitation and daily activities. Failure to adequately manage pain can lead to increased anxiety and fear of movement, further complicating recovery and prolonging the healing process.
Vómitos persistentes Persistent vomiting can not only lead to physical discomfort but also result in dehydration and significant nutritional deficiencies. These complications can markedly impair recovery and necessitate further medical interventions, extending hospital stays and delaying overall healing.
Presunción de resultados desfavorables A pessimistic outlook regarding recovery can have deleterious effects on a patient's engagement and compliance with recovery protocols. A negative mindset can contribute to poor coping strategies and increased emotional distress, further complicating recovery efforts.
Uso de tabaco Smoking has been documented to adversely affect circulation and wound healing, increasing the risk of post-operative complications. Moreover, nicotine dependence can inhibit recovery by reducing respiratory function and increasing stress levels, necessitating comprehensive smoking cessation support.

At-Risk Population for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

Certain groups are more susceptible to "Impaired surgical recovery". These are explained below:

Older Adults
- Individuals over 70 years of age
  The aging population is particularly vulnerable to impaired surgical recovery due to several interconnected factors. Physiologically, older adults often experience decreased organ function, reduced physiological reserve, and a greater likelihood of comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis. These conditions can complicate surgical procedures and recovery, leading to longer hospital stays and increased risk of postoperative complications such as infections, delirium, or impaired wound healing. Additionally, age-related changes in skin elasticity and immune system function can further hinder recovery, necessitating tailored postoperative care and closer monitoring during the recovery phase.
Compromised Physical Status
- Individuals with ASA Class 3 Physical Status
  Patients classified as ASA Class 3 by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) have severe systemic disease that increases their risk of complications during and after surgery. These individuals often present with chronic health issues that can impair the body’s ability to recover postoperatively. For example, those with moderate to severe cardiac disease or severe respiratory conditions may experience complications such as cardiovascular instability, prolonged recovery of respiratory function, and higher rates of re-admission. Therefore, such patients require meticulous preoperative assessment and postoperative management to mitigate the risks associated with surgical recovery.
Cardiovascular Health History
- Individuals with a history of myocardial infarction
  Patients with a prior history of myocardial infarction are at an elevated risk for impaired recovery due to the residual effects of cardiac damage and their potential for experiencing postoperative cardiac complications. Surgical stress can place additional strain on the heart, particularly in those already compromised by past cardiac events. This group may face challenges such as arrhythmias, heart failure, or a sudden worsening of their cardiac status during recovery. For these patients, effective preoperative cardiac evaluation and postoperative monitoring are critical to identify and manage complications early.
Nutritional Status
- Individuals with a history of preoperative weight loss
  Patients experiencing significant weight loss prior to surgery are at heightened risk for impaired surgical recovery due to malnutrition. Weight loss can result from various factors, including chronic illnesses, dietary restrictions, or psychological issues. Malnourished individuals generally have lower protein levels and a weakened immune response, which can lead to slower healing, heightened infection risk, and prolonged hospital stays. Preoperative screening for nutritional status, along with interventions such as nutritional supplementation, is essential for optimizing recovery in this vulnerable population.

Associated Conditions for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" can coexist with other conditions. These are explained below:

Hemoglobin Deficiency (Anemia) Anemia leads to a decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which can significantly impair healing and recovery post-surgery. This condition mediates a delayed recovery due to insufficient oxygenation of tissues, critical for successful healing post-operatively. Anemia can cause fatigue, reduced energy levels, and inadequate perfusion to surgical sites, all of which hinder the recovery trajectory. Therefore, assessing hemoglobin levels preoperatively and monitoring post-operative recovery in patients with anemia is crucial for effective care planning.
Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes can severely compromise the body’s ability to heal and fight infections due to hyperglycemia, which leads to impaired collagen synthesis and reduced inflammatory response. Post-surgical complications, most notably wound infections, are significantly higher in diabetic patients. Consequently, proper glycemic control before and after the surgery is integral to mitigate these risks, presenting a complex interplay of endocrine dysfunction and surgical healing.
Emergency Surgery When surgeries are performed in emergency settings, they are often associated with higher rates of complications and longer recovery times. The urgency of care can result in inadequate pre-operative assessments or preparations, substantially impacting the patient’s recovery. Patients may present with comorbidities or acute conditions that complicate the surgical outcome. Therefore, a nuanced understanding of the patient’s medical history and condition leading up to surgery is vital to facilitate recovery.
Extensive Surgical Procedures Longer and more complex surgical interventions often entail greater tissue trauma, necessitating a more prolonged recovery period. The risk of complications such as infection, hemorrhage, and prolonged immobility is heightened with extensive surgeries, thereby delaying the postoperative healing process. Care strategies must consider the extent of surgery to implement appropriate postoperative monitoring and intervention plans.
Inadequate Functional Capacity Patients lacking the necessary skills or resources for self-care may struggle to adhere to post-operative instructions, increasing the risk for complications such as infection or poor wound healing. Functional assessments and supportive strategies should be implemented to empower these individuals toward successful recovery, highlighting the importance of rehabilitation in surgical management.
Intraoperative Hypothermia Maintaining normal body temperature during surgery is essential in preventing postoperative complications. Intraoperative hypothermia can lead to coagulopathy, increased myocardial oxygen consumption, and delayed recovery. Recognizing and addressing thermal management as a factor in surgical recovery can improve overall outcomes, emphasizing the need for preoperative planning regarding temperature control measures.
Perioperative Blood Transfusion The need for blood transfusions during or after surgery can introduce risks of transfusion-related complications and infections. These added complications may obstruct the recovery path, leading to longer hospital stays and increased morbidities. Understanding the implications of transfusion in surgical recovery allows for better risk assessment and management during planning.
Pharmaceutical Preparations The medications used in the surgical setting, including analgesics, anesthetics, and anti-inflammatories, may carry side effects that complicate the recovery process. Side effects such as nausea, sedation, or delayed gastrointestinal motility can impede early mobilization and patient cooperation with recovery protocols. Awareness of these potential side effects is crucial for the effective management of patient comfort and recovery.
Postoperative Psychological Disturbances Psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression can substantially affect recovery from surgery. These mental health challenges can lead to decreased motivation for self-care, noncompliance with medical advice, and ultimately poorer surgical outcomes. Screening for psychological factors in surgical patients is essential for comprehensive care planning.
Significant Comorbidities The presence of multiple chronic conditions often compounds the risks associated with surgical recovery. Patients with comorbidities like heart disease or chronic lung conditions may experience delayed healing or increased probabilities of surgical complications. Therefore, a multi-faceted assessment is necessary to tailor post-operative care to this vulnerable population.
Surgical Site Infection The occurrence of infections at the surgical site can drastically prolong recovery times and increase the risk of sepsis. Infections can impede healing processes and lead to increased morbidity and mortality rates. Preventive measures, such as aseptic technique and proper wound care, are vital in minimizing this risk during the surgical recovery phase.

NOC Objectives / Expected Outcomes

For the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery", the following expected outcomes (NOC) are proposed to guide the evaluation of the effectiveness of nursing interventions. These objectives focus on improving the patient's status in relation to the manifestations and etiological factors of the diagnosis:

Physical Comfort
This outcome is relevant as it focuses on the patient’s ability to manage pain and discomfort post-surgery, which is crucial for promoting healing and recovery. Improved physical comfort can facilitate mobility and participation in rehabilitation activities, ultimately enhancing surgical recovery.
Wound Healing
Assessing wound healing is vital for evaluating the success of surgical recovery. Effective healing not only indicates that the surgical site is recovering as expected but also helps prevent infections or complications, which can impede the overall recovery process.
Activity Tolerance
This outcome measures the patient's ability to engage in activities of daily living (ADLs) as tolerated, which is essential for regaining independence post-surgery. Improved activity tolerance demonstrates that the patient is progressing in their recovery and enhancing their overall functional status.
Self-Care Management
Focusing on self-care management reflects the patient’s capacity to engage actively in their recovery processes, such as following postoperative care instructions and recognizing signs of complications. This empowerment encourages responsibility for their health and fosters confidence in managing recovery.

NIC Interventions / Nursing Care Plan

To address the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" and achieve the proposed NOC objectives, the following nursing interventions (NIC) are suggested. These interventions are designed to treat the etiological factors and manifestations of the diagnosis:

Postoperative Care
This intervention includes monitoring patient vital signs, managing pain, and assessing surgical sites for signs of infection or complications. Effective postoperative care is crucial for facilitating healing, reducing the risk of infection, and ensuring patient comfort, ultimately promoting a smoother surgical recovery.
Pain Management
Administering pain relief through medication and non-pharmacological strategies helps manage discomfort after surgery. By addressing pain effectively, the intervention enhances the patient’s ability to engage in recovery activities such as mobilization and deep breathing exercises, which are essential for recovery.
Patient Education
Providing education about postoperative care, including wound care, activity restrictions, dietary recommendations, and signs of complications, empowers patients to participate in their recovery. Informed patients are more likely to adhere to care plans, recognize potential issues early, and manage their own health effectively.
Monitoring and Assessment
Regular assessment of the patient's physical and emotional status allows for early identification of complications or difficulties in recovery. This proactive approach helps guide timely interventions, fosters effective communication with the healthcare team, and may reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

Detailed Nursing Activities

The NIC interventions for the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" are composed of specific activities that nursing staff carry out to provide effective care. Below, examples of activities for the key identified interventions are detailed:

For the NIC Intervention: Postoperative Care

Monitor vital signs (temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate) at regular intervals to identify any deviations from the norm, which could indicate complications like infection or hemorrhage.
Assess the surgical site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, to facilitate early intervention and prevent further complications.
Encourage deep breathing exercises and early mobilization to prevent postoperative complications such as atelectasis and promote circulation, enhancing recovery.

For the NIC Intervention: Pain Management

Administer prescribed analgesics timely, using the appropriate route (oral, intravenous, etc.), to optimize pain relief, allowing the patient to participate actively in their recovery.
Implement non-pharmacological pain relief methods, such as guided imagery or relaxation techniques, to provide additional support in managing discomfort without relying solely on medications.
Regularly assess the patient's pain level using a standard pain scale to evaluate the effectiveness of pain management strategies and adjust the care plan as needed.

For the NIC Intervention: Patient Education

Educate the patient on proper wound care techniques, including how to change dressings and recognize signs of infection, to empower them to take an active role in their recovery.
Provide information about activity restrictions post-surgery, emphasizing the importance of avoiding certain movements or activities to prevent complications.
Discuss dietary recommendations post-surgery, such as hydration and nutrient-rich foods, to promote optimal healing and overall recovery.

Practical Tips and Advice

To more effectively manage the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" and improve well-being, the following suggestions and tips are offered for patients and their families:

Prioritize Rest

Allow your body ample time to heal by getting sufficient sleep and rest throughout the day. Rest supports your immune system and aids in recovery, reducing the risk of complications.
Follow a Balanced Diet

Consume a nutritious diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to promote healing. Foods like lean meats, fruits, and vegetables help restore tissue and improve overall health.
Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, which is essential for recovery. Adequate hydration helps maintain blood volume, regulate temperature, and supports the healing process.
Manage Pain Effectively

Work with your healthcare provider to develop a pain management plan. Managing pain effectively can enhance mobility and encourage participation in rehabilitation activities.
Follow Postoperative Instructions

Adhere strictly to the discharge instructions provided by your healthcare team. This includes wound care, medication management, and activity restrictions to prevent complications.
Engage in Light Activity

As advised by your healthcare provider, gradually engage in light activities such as walking. This can enhance circulation, reduce stiffness, and contribute positively to your overall recovery.
Communicate with Healthcare Providers

Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team. Reporting any concerns or unusual symptoms promptly can help prevent complications and ensure timely interventions.

Practical Example / Illustrative Case Study

To illustrate how the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery" is applied in clinical practice and how it is addressed, let's consider the following case:

Patient Presentation and Clinical Context

The patient is a 58-year-old female who underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy due to gallbladder disease. She has a medical history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Postoperatively, she is evaluated for signs of impaired recovery as she reports increased abdominal pain and limited mobility.

Nursing Assessment

During the assessment, the following significant data were collected:

Key Subjective Datum 1: The patient reports a pain level of 7/10 at the surgical site, worsened with movement.
Key Subjective Datum 2: The patient expresses difficulty in performing activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing due to pain.
Key Objective Datum 1: Vital signs show a slight elevation in heart rate at 102 bpm, indicating potential stress or pain response.
Key Objective Datum 2: Surgical site exhibits erythema and mild swelling, suggesting possible infection or delayed healing.
Key Objective Datum 3: The patient has not ambulated since surgery 48 hours ago, demonstrating decreased mobility.

Analysis and Formulation of the NANDA-I Nursing Diagnosis

The analysis of the assessment data leads to the identification of the following nursing diagnosis: Impaired surgical recovery. This conclusion is based on the presence of significant pain, limited mobility, signs of potential infection, and the patient's inability to perform self-care activities, which are all defining characteristics indicating a delay in recovery related to surgical trauma and potential complications.

Proposed Care Plan (Key Objectives and Interventions)

The care plan will focus on addressing the "Impaired surgical recovery" diagnosis with the following priority elements:

Objectives (Suggested NOCs)

Increase patient's comfort level to a pain score of 3/10 or lower within 48 hours.
Promote mobility by progressing from bed rest to ambulation within 24 hours.

Interventions (Suggested NICs)

Enhancement of Pain Management:
- Administer prescribed analgesics on a scheduled basis to maintain adequate pain control.
- Teach the patient and family non-pharmacologic pain management techniques such as deep breathing and relaxation exercises.
Facilitation of Mobility:
- Assist the patient in sitting up on the edge of the bed followed by supervised ambulation to the chair.
- Encourage the patient to perform leg exercises every hour to promote circulation and prevent complications.

Progress and Expected Outcomes

With the implementation of the proposed interventions, it is expected that the patient will report a reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility, allowing her to participate actively in her recovery process. Continuous monitoring will allow evaluation of the plan's effectiveness, ensuring timely adjustments to the care plan as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about the NANDA-I diagnosis "Impaired surgical recovery":

What does "impaired surgical recovery" mean?

"Impaired surgical recovery" refers to a state where a patient experiences difficulty healing or recovering after a surgical procedure. This may include issues such as pain, infection, or complications that hinder normal recovery.

How can I recognize if a patient is facing impaired surgical recovery?

Signs may include increased pain, delayed wound healing, fever, or unusual drainage from the surgical site. Patients may also report fatigue or difficulty resuming normal activities.

What factors contribute to impaired surgical recovery?

Factors can include the patient's age, pre-existing medical conditions, nutritional status, wound care practices, and the complexity of the surgical procedure performed.

What interventions can help improve recovery after surgery?

Interventions may involve pain management, ensuring proper nutrition, monitoring for signs of infection, providing education on wound care, and encouraging physical activity as tolerated.

When should I seek help if I suspect impaired surgical recovery?

If you notice concerning symptoms such as worsening pain, swelling, fever, or any unusual changes at the surgical site, it is important to contact a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and guidance.