Patient Care & Post-Operative Management Flashcards
7 cards from real CIT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Patient Care & Post-Operative Management flashcards as text
A patient reports persistent numbness of the lower lip 72 hours after mandibular implant placement. What is the most appropriate immediate action?
Answer: Contact the implant surgeon immediately to evaluate for nerve injury
Persistent neurosensory disturbance beyond 24–48 hours warrants urgent referral to the surgeon to assess for inferior alveolar nerve compromise.
Which oral hygiene aid is most recommended for cleaning around implant healing abutments during the early post-operative period?
Answer: Soft-bristle toothbrush with gentle circular strokes
A soft-bristle brush with gentle technique minimizes trauma to healing periimplant tissues while removing plaque.
Post-operative instructions for implant patients should advise against which activity for at least the first 48 hours?
Answer: Vigorous physical exercise
Vigorous exercise elevates blood pressure and heart rate, increasing risk of post-surgical bleeding and compromising clot stability.
A patient develops a fever of 101.5°F and purulent discharge from an implant site 5 days post-operatively. This most likely indicates:
Answer: Acute peri-implant infection requiring treatment
Fever combined with purulent exudate at 5 days is a classic sign of surgical site infection requiring debridement and antibiotic therapy.
When should a patient's first post-operative clinical check typically occur after uncomplicated implant placement?
Answer: 7–14 days post-operatively
A 7–14 day recall allows suture removal, wound inspection, and early detection of complications before full osseointegration.
To control post-operative edema following implant surgery, patients should be instructed to apply ice packs for:
Answer: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24–48 hours
Intermittent ice application (20 on/20 off) during the first 48 hours reduces inflammation without causing tissue damage from prolonged cold exposure.
A patient who smokes asks when they can resume smoking after implant surgery. The best evidence-based recommendation is:
Answer: Avoid smoking for at least 8 weeks post-operatively
Smoking impairs vascularization and immune response; abstinence for at least 8 weeks significantly improves osseointegration success rates.