Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication for many surgical patients, causing anxiety and distress. Evidence suggests that nursing practice in this area is inconsistent and that nurses’ knowledge needs to improve, to promote better patient outcomes. This article provides a review of the incidence of PONV, associated complications and risk factors. Examples of risk assessment tools that could be used to identify patients at risk of developing PONV are described to ensure timely and appropriate treatment.
Nursing Standard. 27, 18, 35-43. doi: 10.7748/ns2013.01.27.18.35.c9486
Correspondencekevin.hambridge@plymouth.ac.uk
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to double blind peer review
Accepted: 16 August 2012
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