The authors describe the predisposing factors of post-operative pulmonary complications (old age, malbalanced hydratation and nutrition, exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases) as well as the aggravating factors (anesthesia, immobilization in bed, abdominal distention, pain). They present the objectives of nursing intervention, pre and post operative measures to prevent pulmonary complications, early identification of clinical signs of respiratory failure, and treatment.