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Postoperative fever day 1 — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateSurgery (post-operative, follow-up)Postoperative fever day 1USMLE Step 3

A 55-year-old woman has temperature 38.1°C on the first evening after hysterectomy. She is using incentive spirometry poorly because of pain. Blood pressure is normal, incision is clean, lungs are clear, and urinalysis is normal. WBC count is 10,500/mm3. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Encourage ambulation, pulmonary hygiene, and adequate analgesia

Low-grade early postoperative fever without localizing infection is usually managed supportively with pulmonary hygiene and mobilization.

Reference: ACS/SAGES perioperative care principles and standard surgical management guidance: https://www.facs.org/