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Apfel Score for Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting

Clinical score used to predict the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in surgical patients.

Clinical parameters

Gender

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Smoking status

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History of motion sickness or PONV

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Use of postoperative opioids

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Clinical context

The simplified Apfel score was derived and validated mainly in adults using four predictors (female sex, history of PONV or motion sickness, non-smoking status, and planned postoperative opioids). It is a baseline risk tool; procedure and anesthetic factors can further modify PONV risk.