Postoperative assessment after CABG includes which of the following as a priority?

• A. Hypothermia
• B. Pain
• C. Anorexia
• D. Fatigue

Answer: (B)

Pain control and assessment right after CABG is the priority because chest incisional pain from the sternotomy directly affects a patient’s ability to take deep breaths and cough effectively. If pain is not well managed, shallow breathing and splinting occur, lowering tidal volumes, impairing airway clearance, and increasing the risk of atelectasis and pneumonia. Adequate analgesia thus supports better ventilation, facilitates early mobilization, and helps with timely weaning from ventilation and chest-tube–related care. While hypothermia, anorexia, and fatigue are relevant postoperative concerns, none impact respiratory mechanics and recovery as directly as pain does in the immediate post-op period.