What is a common side effect of poorly managed postoperative pain?

Poorly managed postoperative pain can lead to delayed recovery and complications for several reasons. When a patient experiences significant pain after surgery, they may be less likely to mobilize or participate in rehabilitation activities, which are crucial for their recovery. This lack of movement can lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and muscle atrophy. Additionally, unmanaged pain can result in increased physiological stress responses, which may hinder the healing process and lead to longer hospital stays.

In contrast, effective pain management facilitates quicker mobilization, better patient engagement in recovery activities, and overall improved patient outcomes. Therefore, recognizing the importance of pain control post-surgery is vital in avoiding adverse effects and promoting a smoother recovery process.