Following a right-modified radical mastectomy, which findings should be reported to the provider?

Following a right-modified radical mastectomy, the finding of coughing and frothy, pink secretions is significant and should be reported to the provider. This presentation could indicate potential complications such as pulmonary edema or the presence of fluid in the lungs, which may arise due to an array of issues such as heart complications, fluid imbalance, or infection. The occurrence of frothy pink secretions suggests that there may be blood tinged fluid that could be associated with serious respiratory issues that need immediate attention.

Other findings can be concerning but typically do not indicate a need for urgent intervention. For example, while elevated heart rate and anxiety may suggest discomfort or distress related to surgery, they are somewhat common and may not require reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Low-grade fever and mild pain are also relatively common post-operatively and may not indicate an immediate problem. Redness at the incision site should be monitored but without additional symptoms such as fever or discharge, it may not be urgent. Therefore, the presence of coughing with frothy, pink secretions is the most alarming finding and warrants prompt evaluation.