Preventing Postoperative Complications
Hydrocephalus - caused by obstruction of the normal CSF pathway from edema, an expanding lesion such as a hematoma, or blood in the subarachnoid space. A surgical shunt may be placed for treatment.
Respiratory Problems - Complications include atelectasis, pneumonia, and neurogenic pulmonary edema. Frequent deep breaths, movement, incentive spirometry are useful in preventing these complications.
Wound infection - Occur more in debilitated clients. If infection occurs the wound will be red and puffy. The nurse may treat a localized infection. For more severe infection, systemic antibiotic treatment is given.