postoperative nausea and vomiting
Also written as: PONV — Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and/or vomiting occurring within 24 hours of a procedure, a common complication of general anesthesia and opioid use in the dental anesthesia setting.
Full Definition
Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is one of the most frequently reported adverse outcomes following dental sedation and general anesthesia, particularly in paediatric and female patients and those with a history of motion sickness. It affects patient satisfaction, delays discharge, and may precipitate aspiration. Antiemetics such as ondansetron and dexamethasone are routinely used for prophylaxis. In editorial contexts, PONV should always be expanded on first use; 'POV' is an incorrect truncation seen in error. Editors should also distinguish PONV from 'postdischarge nausea and vomiting' (PDNV), which occurs after the patient has left the facility.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from postdischarge nausea and vomiting (PDNV). Never truncate to 'POV.' Expand on first use in both abstract and body text.
In Context
- "The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was significantly lower in the dexamethasone prophylaxis group." — Clinical trial results section
- "PONV should be expanded in full on its first appearance in the abstract." — Manuscript editing note