You are asked to attend an 86-year-old male patient who had undergone peptic ulcer repair 24 hours ago. The operation notes indicate minimal peritoneal soiling. Prior to surgery, he was fit but a heavy smoker. The nurse reports raised body temperature and indicate that his pain is poorly controlled although he was receiving morphine infusion. Examination Blood pressure 130/90 mmHg, Pulse rate: 110/min, respiratory rate 30/min, temperature: 38 °C Chest examination revealed coarse basal crepitations bilaterally and the lung bases were dull on percussion. Abdominal examination revealed tenderness around the incision site.
Urinalysis was clear. CBC showed hemoglobin, mean cell volume, Sodium and potassium levels within normal range. Only WBCs were slightly elevated. Chest X-ray was obtained. What are the most likely diagnosis and management? *This case is from Docplexus editorial team for…
