An appendectomy performed alongside a hysterectomy is classified as which type of surgery?

Prepare for the Care of the Surgical Patient Test. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Ensure you're exam-ready!

An appendectomy performed alongside a hysterectomy is classified as major surgery because both procedures involve significant anatomical areas and carry higher risks compared to minor surgeries. In this context, major surgeries are typically more extensive and require significant intervention, which aligns with the nature of both procedures.

The classification of the surgery as urgent is correct because the appendectomy, which is often performed to address an inflamed appendix, usually requires timely intervention to prevent complications like rupture. This urgency is especially relevant when performed in conjunction with a hysterectomy, as managing both conditions simultaneously can improve patient outcomes and ensure efficient use of operating room time.

In this scenario, labeling the surgery as elective is not appropriate because elective surgeries are typically planned and scheduled in advance without immediate risk to the patient. A hysterectomy can be elective, but when paired with an appendectomy that is urgent, the overall surgical approach shifts to addressing both conditions concurrently to prevent further health deterioration.

Lastly, the term "ablative" is used for surgeries aimed at removing tissue, which can apply to either the hysterectomy or the appendectomy individually, but it does not encompass the essence of performing these two surgeries together. Therefore, for an appendectomy done alongside a hysterectomy, the classification as major,

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