What is commonly assessed immediately after a patient comes out of anesthesia?

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The assessment of breathing is crucial immediately after a patient comes out of anesthesia because the airway and respiratory function can be compromised during anesthesia. Anesthesia can depress the respiratory system, and patients may experience diminished respiratory effort, airway obstruction, or hypoxemia upon awakening. Therefore, monitoring the patient's ability to breathe effectively helps ensure that they are ventilating properly and that oxygen is being adequately delivered to their tissues.

Although it is also important to assess pain levels, blood pressure, and mobility at this stage, the priority is usually given to ensuring that the patient is breathing adequately as this is essential for maintaining oxygen saturation and preventing respiratory complications. The other factors, while still important in the overall post-anesthesia care, are typically monitored after ensuring that the patient’s airway is secure and that they are breathing adequately.

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