A Population-Based Survey on the Prevalence of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in the Qassim Region

Introduction Despite advances in anesthetic techniques and the routine use of prophylactic antiemetics, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains a prevalent and distressing complication within the first 24 hours after surgery. It is associated with reduced patient satisfaction, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of PONV and to identify associated risk factors among postoperative patients in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients who had undergone surgery under anesthesia in the Qassim Province of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire covering demographic and clinical variables, along with the validated Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting, and retching (RINVR) to quantify PONV severity. Design This was a cross-sectional observational study using an online self-administered questionnaire in postoperative patients. Results A total of 392 patients participated. PONV (any nausea, vomiting, or retching) affected 72.7% of patients overall, with 66.8% reporting nausea, 42.9% vomiting, and 42.3% retching. PONV was more frequent and severe in female patients than in male patients (76.8% vs. 62.9% incidence, p=0.007). The type of anesthesia also significantly influenced PONV occurrence (p=0.003), with patients undergoing local anesthesia experiencing much lower rates than those receiving general anesthesia. Age and weight did not show a significant association with PONV in this sample. Conclusion PONV is common among surgical patients in the Qassim region, particularly in women and those under general anesthesia. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing high-risk patients and implementing targeted prophylactic strategies to reduce PONV and enhance postoperative recovery in Qassim and beyond.