Post-operative fever

Differential Diagnosis

The following mneumonic can be used to aid in remembering the common causes of post-op fever:

  • Wind (POD 1-2) - pneumonia, pulmonary embolism
  • Water (POD 3-5) - UTI, specifically if an indwelling foley catheter is in place
  • Walking (POD 4-6) - DVT/PE related to immobility
  • Wound (POD 5-7) - surgical site infection
  • Wonder Drugs (POD >7) - fever related to IV lines, or drug fever