| 9.) How could postoperative pneumonia be prevented?
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Prevention of postoperative pneumonia:
- Preoperative instructions regarding deep breathing and ambulation
- Smoking cessation at least 2 weeks prior to elective surgery
- Planning incisions if possible that are less painful
- Proper pain management postoperatively - PCA, epidural catheter
- Incentive spirometry and possible intermittent positive pressure breathing
- Early ambulation
- Avoid fluid overload if at all possible
- Keeping the head of the bed at 30 degrees
- Avoid unnecessary blood transfusions (ie, using 7.0 as the hemoglobin trigger for transfusion in the stable, resuscitated patient)
- Tight blood sugar control in diabetics
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