What vital signs should be monitored closely after surgery?

Monitoring vital signs after surgery is crucial to ensure the patient's recovery is progressing without complications. Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation are particularly significant because they provide essential insights into the patient’s cardiovascular and respiratory status.

Blood pressure can indicate fluid status and the body's response to surgical stress. Abnormal readings might suggest issues such as bleeding or shock, which require immediate attention. Heart rate reflects how well the heart is functioning, and significant deviations can point to problems like arrhythmias or excessive pain. Oxygen saturation is critical in assessing respiratory function; low levels may indicate inadequate ventilation or lung complications.

The other choices include vital signs that are not as essential for immediate postoperative monitoring or mix physiological measurements with non-physiological factors. For instance, glucose levels, while important for diabetic patients, are not routinely monitored in all postoperative scenarios. Similarly, monitoring mood or emotional state can provide valuable insights into the patient’s wellbeing but are not categorized as vital signs in the acute recovery phase.