What should a nurse do if a patient exhibits signs of excessive bleeding post-surgery?

When a patient exhibits signs of excessive bleeding post-surgery, the appropriate response is to apply direct pressure to the site and notify the physician. This action is critical in managing potential complications arising from bleeding, which can lead to serious issues such as hypovolemic shock or hematoma formation.

Applying direct pressure helps to control the bleeding by exerting force on the area, which can promote clotting and minimize blood loss. Notifying the physician is essential because surgical staff must be aware of the complication to assess the patient further and decide if additional interventions are necessary, such as surgical exploration or fluid resuscitation.

Other options, like massaging the area, could exacerbate the bleeding by disrupting any existing clots or increasing blood flow to the area. Waiting for the bleeding to subside on its own can endanger the patient's stability and delay necessary treatment. Encouraging the patient to walk around is inappropriate, as movement may increase the risk of further bleeding or complicate the situation. Thus, the correct response combines immediate first aid with timely communication to healthcare providers for optimal patient care.