Yes it should be prevented. By refining surgical procedure to induce minimal inflammation. And by addition of topical brimonidine (which increase ocular outflow) and timolol (which reduce aqueous production). If required systemic carbonic-andhydrase inhibitors as Acetazolamide can be given in highly suspicious cases.

There are some studies indicating that most frequently intraocular pressure rise after about 30-60 minutes after phakoemulsification surgery. Considering that, I put Timolol drops at the end of surgery.  

Thorough viscoelastic removal is essential to avoid intraocular pressure elevation after cataract surgery. Especially dispersive viscoelastics should be avoided towards the end of phaco surgery due to their hard removal. Viscoelastics may remain inside the capsular bag or behind the İOL. They should be cleaned meticulously by irrigation- aspiration. I allways observe some trapped viscoelastic between posterior capsule and intraocular lens during surgery, and routinely enter behind İOL with irrigation handpiece and remove them. 

Regardless of its molecular size or physical properties, any viscoelastic remaining in the anterior chamber is a challenge to trabecular meshwork. Especially in patients with pseudoeexfoliation or pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, filtering capacity of trabecular meshwork is seriously decreased and any challenge may cause intraocular pressure rise. 

After an atraumatic and uncomplicated surgery, if you do not leave viscoelastic inside the eye, usually you do not observe postoperative intraocular pressure rise.

My preference is topical AZOPT 1% or the patient needs lower IOP AZARGA ( Brinzolamide+ Timolol) and Acetazolamide orally