A survey of postoperative nausea and vomiting in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: To determine the incidence of post operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) for different types of common surgical procedure in the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, and to analyse the predictive factors associated with PONV.

Methods: A prospective interview-based survey on the incidence of post operative nausea and vomiting in 800 in-patients aged 10-80 years was conducted during a six-month period. Cases of nausea and vomiting were recorded for 24 hours postoperatively. To achieve a representative sample of everyday surgery, data were collected from 8 types of common surgical procedures in 4 different operating theatres and departments: general surgery, gynecology, ophthalmology and otolaryngology.

Results: In the recovery room, the incidence of nausea and vomiting was 15% and 5% respectively. Over the whole 24 hour period, these figures were 52% and 25%, respectively. The highest incidence of nausea and vomiting was observed in gynaecological patients. The most important predictive factors associated with an increased risk of nausea and vomiting were female gender, previous history of postoperative sickness, a longer duration of surgery and a history of motion sickness.

Conclusion: This survey has enhanced our awareness of postoperative nausea and vomiting and raised the possibility of recognizing patients at risk preoperatively.

Keywords: post-operative, nausea, vomiting, survey

Orient Journal of Medicine Vol. 17(3&4) 2005: 11-16