During general surgery, a nurse observes tachycardia, muscle rigidity, respiratory acidosis, and hyperthermia in a patient. Which complication of surgery does the nurse suspect?

Choice A reason: Deep breathing and coughing exercises help clear the lungs and prevent atelectasis, a common postoperative respiratory complication.

Choice B reason: Incentive spirometry encourages patients to take deep breaths, which can help keep the lungs clear of mucus and prevent pneumonia.

Choice C reason: Leg exercises improve circulation and can help prevent blood clots, which can lead to pulmonary embolism, another serious respiratory complication.

Choice D reason: Early ambulation, or getting the patient moving as soon as possible after surgery, is crucial for preventing respiratory complications by promoting circulation and lung expansion.

Choice E reason: Hand squeezes are not directly related to preventing respiratory complications; they are more associated with preventing circulatory complications.

Choice A reason: Thinking/content of thought refers to the logical process of thought and coherence, not directly to the experience of reality.

Choice B reason: Mood and affect pertain to the emotional state and its expression, not the perception of reality.

Choice C reason: Judgment involves decision-making abilities and the evaluation of situations, not the perception of reality.

Choice D reason: Perception is the component that deals with how a person experiences reality, including any hallucinations or delusions they may have.