What is a significant concern for a nurse caring for a postoperative patient who has undergone grafting for an aneurysm?

A significant concern for a nurse caring for a postoperative patient who has undergone grafting for an aneurysm is graft leakage. Graft leakage occurs when blood seeps out of the grafted area, which can jeopardize the vascular integrity and lead to serious complications, including hematoma formation, infection, or even rupture, depending on the location and extent of the leakage. Recognizing the signs of graft leakage early is crucial for timely intervention, which could include imaging studies and potentially surgical revision if necessary.

In contrast, while catheter infection can be a concern in any postoperative patient, it is not as specific to grafting procedures. Wound dehiscence refers to the reopening of a surgical wound and is more associated with surgical closure complications rather than graft integrity. Thrombosis, or the formation of a blood clot within the graft, is indeed a concern postoperatively, but graft leakage poses an immediate risk that can lead to more severe complications if not appropriately addressed. Thus, focusing on graft leakage allows for preventive measures and prompt treatment, making it a primary concern in this scenario.