Which postoperative prescription should be questioned after a gastrojejunostomy?

In the context of a gastrojejunostomy, it's important to understand that this surgical procedure involves creating a connection between the stomach and the jejunum, bypassing part of the digestive tract. This can affect various postoperative care aspects, particularly regarding patient management.

Irrigating the nasogastric tube can lead to complications in this scenario. After a gastrojejunostomy, the nasogastric tube is typically used for decompression to prevent nausea and vomiting until the gastrointestinal tract begins to function properly. Irrigating the tube could introduce fluids back into the stomach and disrupt the healing process, as well as increase the risk of aspiration or aspiration pneumonia if any fluid is reintroduced. It can also lead to increased pressure in the stomach, which is not optimal post-surgery. Therefore, questioning the prescription for this action is warranted, as maintaining a stable decompressed state is crucial for recovery after such a procedure.

Leg exercises, early ambulation, and coughing and deep-breathing exercises, on the other hand, are generally encouraged to promote circulation, prevent deep vein thrombosis, and enhance pulmonary function, which are critical factors in postoperative care. These prescriptions support overall recovery without negatively impacting the surgical site.