Which of the following is a common post-operative complication after an amputation?

Infection is a common post-operative complication after an amputation due to several factors. The surgical site is open and can become a portal for bacteria, especially in the case of limb amputations where the skin and tissues are compromised. Additionally, the healing process may involve reduced blood flow to the area, which can impair the immune response and healing, increasing the risk of infection.

Access to appropriate wound care and cleanliness is crucial in the post-operative period to minimize this risk. The nature of the procedure also means that there may be other underlying health issues in patients, such as diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, that can predispose them to infections.

In contrast, complications such as dehydration, cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure, while serious, are not as directly correlated with the surgical procedure of amputation itself. They may arise during the overall recovery period but are not specific risks associated with the amputated site.