After nasal surgery, which symptom requires urgent assessment in the postoperative care?

• A. Severe, uncontrolled bleeding.
• B. Mild nasal congestion.
• C. Small amount of crusting.
• D. Normal wound healing.

Answer: (A)

Heavy, uncontrolled bleeding after nasal surgery is the red flag that demands urgent postoperative assessment. It can indicate active hemorrhage from the surgical site and mucosa, which, if not addressed quickly, risks airway compromise from blood pooling in the nasal passages or hypovolemia from blood loss. Prompt evaluation allows rapid control of the bleed, airway protection, and stabilization as needed, sometimes requiring measures like nasal packing or further intervention.

By contrast, mild nasal congestion, a small amount of crusting, and normal wound healing are common, expected parts of recovery and typically do not require emergency assessment unless they are accompanied by other alarming signs.