Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What is an early sign of an anastomotic leak with bariatric gastrointestinal surgeries?

1. Hypotension

2. Tachycardia

3. Decreased appetite

4. Nausea

The correct answer is: Tachycardia

Tachycardia is an early sign of an anastomotic leak following bariatric gastrointestinal surgeries, and it can reflect a physiological response to stress or complications. When an anastomosis (the surgical connection between two parts of the gastrointestinal tract) leaks, it can lead to peritonitis or a systemic inflammatory response, which triggers an increase in heart rate as the body attempts to maintain adequate circulation and compensate for any potential fluid loss or infection. Recognizing tachycardia as a significant early indicator allows healthcare providers to take prompt action to evaluate the patient for complications. This is particularly critical in the postoperative setting, where early detection of leaks can dramatically influence outcomes and recovery times. While other signs such as hypotension, decreased appetite, and nausea may also occur, they tend to appear later or in different clinical contexts. Hypotension can indicate a more severe ongoing process or shock, decreased appetite might not be as immediate or irregular in surgical recovery, and nausea can be related to multiple factors not necessarily indicative of a leak. Therefore, tachycardia stands out as a direct and timely sign of potential anastomotic complication.