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Early postoperative atelectasis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateSurgery (post-operative, follow-up)Early postoperative atelectasisUSMLE Step 3

A 73-year-old man is postoperative day 2 after elective colectomy. He has a temperature of 38.1 C, heart rate 92/min, oxygen saturation 94% on room air, and mild bibasilar crackles. The incision is clean and abdomen is soft. He has been lying in bed because of pain and has not used incentive spirometry. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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

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Correct answer: C — Improve analgesia, ambulation, and lung expansion exercises

Early postoperative low-grade fever with atelectatic findings and immobility is commonly managed with pain control, ambulation, and pulmonary hygiene. Wound infection and anastomotic leak usually present later or with local/systemic findings.

Reference: ACS/SHEA/SAGES surgical guidance