Post-CABG, what should be controlled to prevent complications?

• A. Blood glucose only
• B. Pain and bleeding
• C. Temperature only
• D. Infection risk only

Answer: (B)

After CABG, the most immediate way to reduce complications is by controlling pain and bleeding. Pain leads to shallow breathing and poor coughing, which can cause lung collapse (atelectasis) and pneumonia, and it also triggers a stress response with increased heart rate and blood pressure that raises myocardial oxygen demand and the risk of ischemia or arrhythmias. Effective pain management helps patients take deep breaths, use incentive spirometry, and participate in early mobilization, all of which support respiratory and circulatory stability.

Bleeding control is equally critical because excessive postoperative bleeding can cause mediastinal hematoma or tamponade, lead to hypovolemia, and necessitate reoperation or transfusions—each carrying serious risks and delaying recovery. Monitoring chest tube drainage and restoring hemostasis are essential parts of preventing these life-threatening complications.

While managing blood glucose, temperature, or infection risk are important components of postoperative care, they do not address the primary immediate threats after CABG—bleeding and the physiologic stress from pain. Keeping pain and bleeding well-controlled sets the stage for safer recovery and fewer complications.