Which vital signs are critical to monitor after orthopedic surgery?

Monitoring blood pressure and heart rate after orthopedic surgery is crucial for several reasons. These vital signs provide essential information about the patient's hemodynamic stability and can indicate possible complications. Changes in blood pressure may reflect blood loss, fluid shifts, or reactions to anesthesia, while heart rate can signal pain, anxiety, or cardiovascular issues. These factors are particularly significant in the post-operative phase where patients are at risk for various complications, such as bleeding, infection, or deep vein thrombosis.

While other vital signs like respiration rate, temperature, and blood glucose are important in certain contexts, they do not hold the same immediate critical nature in the aftermath of orthopedic surgery. For instance, while respiratory status is important, it can be less indicative of a surgical complication compared to fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate, which can point directly to issues like hypovolemia or cardiac stress. Therefore, focusing on blood pressure and heart rate is essential for monitoring patient safety and guiding post-operative care effectively.