Assessment of postoperative nausea and vomiting in the early postoperative period

• Published in: Medicinski pregled Vol. 78; no. 1-2; pp. 11 - 17
• Main Authors: Crnic, Jelena, Maricic-Prijic, Sanja, Uvelin, Arsen, Tatic, Milanka
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2025
• ISSN: 0025-8105; 1820-7383
• DOI: 10.2298/MPNS2502011C

Introduction. Postoperative nausea and vomiting remain common complications following general anesthesia and are a significant source of concern for patients prior to surgery. Numerous studies have aimed to identify risk factors that predict the likelihood of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Material and Methods. This cross-sectional observational study included 150 adult patients. Data collection occurred 15 to 45 minutes post-surgery, once patients were fully awake and oriented. Pain and nausea were assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale. Relevant data was obtained from patients? medical histories and anesthesia records and documented in the research protocol. Results. Postoperative nausea was recorded in 36 patients (24%). The most frequently reported intensity of nausea was 3 on the Numerical Rating Scale. Identified risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting included a history of motion sickness, postoperative opioid use, and the use of anti-diabetic medications. A significant correlation was observed between the severity of acute postoperative pain and the presence of nausea, as well as between the Apfel score and the occurrence of postoperative nausea. Conclusion. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting in this study was 24%. The most significant predictors of early postoperative nausea and vomiting were a history of motion sickness, use of opioids postoperatively, and anti-diabetic therapy. The occurrence and severity of early postoperative nausea were associated with the intensity of acute postoperative pain.