Post Op Pain Management Flashcards
Exam 1
- decreased mobility
- increased risk of infection
- atelectasis and pneumonia
- increased risk of venous thromboembolism
- impaired bowel function
- chronic pain syndromes
Complications related to uncontrolled pain
Patient’s pain
Each person’s pain is unique
Use same pain scale each time
how should pain meds be given?
Post-op meds should be given IV. IM is painful and has unpredictable
what opioid has the fastest onset?
fentanyl
when should you change from IV to PO?
Gradual change from IV to po medications after patient is taking po without nausea.
what does a pt need to know in order to have a PCA pump?
Patient needs to be able to physically push the button and mentally able to understand when, why and how to push the button
what should you montior if a pt is given a PCA?
With PCA as well as with any narcotics given after surgery, monitor for respiratory depression.
what is often used in combination of opioids?
NSAIDS
What should you teach a pt to do when coughing?
spliniting the incision
what are thing pt must do post op?
cough, turn, and deep breathe
when should pain meds be given?
pain meds should be given before pain is severe
before getting patient up to walk/changing dressing etc that will cause pain.
what puts a pt at a higher rosk for resp depression?
osa
what are common adverse effect os opioids?
nausea, vomiting, delirium, hallucinations and constipation. Constipation will not decrease with tolerance so measures should be taken to prevent.
what can control itching?
antihistamines
what should you pre screen for?
obstructive sleep apnea
