After an open colectomy, what symptom should the nurse monitor closely?

In the context of post-operative care following an open colectomy, monitoring for uncontrolled pain is essential. This symptom can indicate various complications, such as infection, anastomotic leakage, or bowel obstruction, which may not present with overt signs initially. Uncontrolled pain can impact the patient’s overall comfort, mobility, and ability to engage in recovery activities, such as deep breathing exercises to prevent complications like pneumonia.

While symptoms like dehydration, fever, and abdominal distension are also critical to monitor, uncontrolled pain is a more immediate indicator that something may be wrong, as it often provides early insight into the patient's postoperative condition. Prompt identification and treatment of uncontrolled pain can facilitate interventions to address the underlying issue and promote healing.