What is a common complication from ineffective coughing after surgery?

Ineffective coughing after surgery can lead to the accumulation of secretions in the lungs, which increases the risk of developing pneumonia. This is because effective coughing helps clear mucus and prevent the growth of bacteria that can lead to lung infections.

During the postoperative period, patients may experience pain, sedation, or neuromuscular blocking agents that diminish their ability to cough effectively. Without adequate removal of these secretions, bacteria can thrive, and lung function can be compromised, resulting in aspiration or atelectasis, both of which can contribute to pneumonia.

The other options listed, such as hypotension, hypertension, and bradycardia, are not primarily associated with the complications arising from ineffective coughing. They may occur due to other factors such as medications, underlying health conditions, or stress responses, but they are not direct consequences of post-surgical coughing inefficiency. Therefore, pneumonia is the most likely and relevant complication stemming from ineffective coughing in a postoperative context.