Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which respiratory condition is most commonly seen in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery?

1. Atelectasis

2. Pneumonia

3. Pneumothorax

4. Bronchitis

The correct answer is: Atelectasis

Atelectasis is a condition characterized by the partial or complete collapse of the lung, which is indeed the most common respiratory complication seen in the immediate postoperative period, typically within the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. This condition often arises due to various factors, including shallow breathing as a result of pain, the effects of anesthesia, immobility, and the presence of secretions. In the postoperative environment, patients may have reduced lung volumes due to pain when taking deep breaths or coughing, leading to a lack of adequate ventilation in certain areas of the lungs. As a result, air can be gradually reabsorbed from the alveoli, causing them to collapse. This occurrence emphasizes the importance of early mobilization, effective pain management, and respiratory therapy, such as incentive spirometry, to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis. Other conditions mentioned, such as pneumonia, pneumothorax, and bronchitis, typically manifest later in the postoperative recovery period or arise from different etiological factors. Pneumonia may develop as a result of atelectasis if not adequately addressed, while pneumothorax is more commonly associated with injury or trauma rather than surgical recovery alone. Bronchitis arises from inflammation of the bronchi