Which of the following is a potential complication to monitor during recovery from anesthesia?

Monitoring for signs of infection or hematoma during recovery from anesthesia is crucial because these complications can significantly affect a patient's recovery process and overall outcome. After surgical procedures, patients are often at risk for complications related to the surgical site, including infections (which can lead to systemic issues) and hematomas (localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels that can also cause pressure and discomfort).

Recognizing these signs early allows for timely intervention, which is essential in preventing more serious complications. Patients may show redness, swelling, increased pain, or fever, which are all indications that require attention. The management of these complications is important for ensuring patient safety and enhancing the recovery experience.

High levels of physical activity might not be appropriate immediately after anesthesia, as patients typically need time to recover. Changes in a patient’s appetite can occur post-anesthesia but are generally less critical than immediate infectious complications. Psychological reactions can also be a concern, but they typically do not pose the same immediate risk as monitoring for infections or hematomas.