A postoperative patient exhibits delirium and restlessness. What could be a possible cause of this behavior?

Anesthetic agents used during surgery are known to have various effects on the central nervous system, and their impact can sometimes persist into the postoperative period. Delirium and restlessness can be manifestations of these effects as the patient wakes from anesthesia. This is particularly true for certain types of anesthetics that may have lingering sedative properties or lead to altered mental status upon emergence from anesthesia.

Additionally, some patients may be more sensitive to these agents due to factors such as age, preexisting cognitive function, or the specific combination of medications used during the procedure. Recognizing that anesthesia can cause confusion or agitation is crucial in postoperative care, as it can help guide appropriate interventions to mitigate these side effects.

While factors such as sleep deprivation, inadequate pain management, and loss of fluids can also contribute to postoperative delirium or restlessness, the direct influence of anesthetic agents is a common and significant cause that practitioners should consider when evaluating patient behavior post-surgery.