Which finding would indicate that a patient recovering from surgery can advance to a full liquid diet?

Advancing to a full liquid diet in a patient recovering from surgery typically depends on their gastrointestinal function and tolerance to oral intake. The presence of flatus signifies that the bowel is starting to return to normal function, indicating that peristalsis has resumed. Additionally, a report of hunger suggests that the patient is ready to take in more nutrients. Together, these factors indicate that the digestive system is functioning adequately, allowing for the transition to a more substantial diet that includes liquids.

While the absence of nausea and stable vital signs are certainly favorable signs of recovery, they do not directly confirm adequate gastrointestinal motility or appetite, which are crucial for advancing diet. Intolerance to solid food, on the other hand, suggests a need to remain on a restricted diet until the digestive system can handle more complex foods. Therefore, the combination of passing flatus and expressing hunger provides a more definitive indication that the patient can safely progress to a full liquid diet.