Evidence-based interventions for post discharge nausea and vomiting: a review of the literature

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postdischarge nausea and vomiting (PDNV) continue to be a problem for one third of all patients who require surgery and anesthesia. Very few studies have been reported that specifically target PDNV in the outpatient surgery population for interventions after discharge home. Twenty studies were identified that specifically addressed the effect of an intervention for the purpose of preventing PDNV or rescuing the patient who develops PDNV. This article presents an integrative review of the research literature to determine the best evidence for prevention of PDNV in adults or for the rescue of patients who suffer from PDNV.