Incidence of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common complications following general anesthesia, impacting patient recovery and satisfaction. Despite advancements in perioperative care, PONV remains a significant concern due to its adverse effects. This study aims to investigate PONV incidence and risk factors among patients undergoing general anesthesia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at a tertiary care hospital. Participants included 100 adults undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, including demographic, surgical, anesthetic variables, and PONV occurrence. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were employed for data
analysis. Results: The mean age of participants was 45.7 years, with 60% females. Orthopedic surgeries were most common (30%), with a mean surgery duration of 2.5 hours. Sevoflurane was the primary volatile agent (60%), with 80% receiving opioids and 70% antiemetics during anesthesia. The incidence of PONV within 24 hours postoperatively was 35%. Conclusion: This study provides insights into PONV incidence and risk factors, highlighting the importance of individualized perioperative care to minimize PONV and improve patient outcomes. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and develop standardized management
guidelines.