Prevention Management of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Ambulatory Setting: How Well are We Identifying Patients with Motion Sickness?

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postdischarge nausea and vomiting (PDNV) continue to be a serious problem in the ambulatory setting. These symptoms are among the most undesired complications following surgery and can adversely affect the quality of recovery for many patients. Previous research has concluded that the identification of risk factors for PONV/PDNV is a first step in developing effective prevention strategies. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of PONV/ PDNV in the ambulatory setting in female clients who were treated with transdermal scopolamine (TDS) for motion sickness as compared to those patients who were not treated with TDS. The study design was a two-group retrospective chart review. Of the group identified with a positive history and not treated with TDS, 54% (n=6) developed PONV /PDNV as compared to 26% (n=3) that were treated. This pilot study provided preliminary support that preoperative identification of PONV/PDNV risk factors and treatment with TDS reduces PONV/PDNV. Standardized, comprehensive risk factor identification in the preoperative period is indicated