Postdischarge Nausea and Vomiting: Management Strategies and Outcomes Over 7 Days

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine patient management strategies and outcomes for self-care of postdischarge nausea and vomiting (PDNV). Design: Prospective, comparative, descriptive, and longitudinal study. Methods: The sample consisted of 248 patients aged 18 years or older undergoing a procedure requiring general anesthesia. Patients recorded incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting, the impact of symptoms, and actions taken to alleviate symptoms for 7 days postdischarge. Findings: The prevalence of PDNV was 569%. The methods used to relieve symptoms included antiemetic use by a minority and nonpharmacologic techniques of self-management by some. The effect of nausea on QOL, patient functioning, and patient satisfaction was significantly worse for those who experienced postdischarge nausea on all days. Conclusion: Patients with PDNV use minor self-care strategies to manage symptoms. The presence of PDNV affects overall quality of life, patient functioning, and patient satisfaction.