Post-operative care

Question 1

What steps should be taken at the end of anaesthesia?

Answer 1

• Change inspired gases to 100% oxygen
• Stop infusions
• Ascertain that spontaneous reversal has occured
• Reverse muscle paralysis - neostigmine + anticholinergic
• Once spontaneoulsy breathing - inspect mouth and oropharynx + remove ET tube
• Administer oxygen face mask

Question 2

What would you want to monitor in recovery?

Answer 2

• Signs of hypoventilation
• Temperature
• HR + BP

Question 3

When would you discharge someone in recovery to the ward?

Answer 3

Happy with resp, cardio function and pain relief

Question 4

What instruction would you give to the ward regarding management following anaesthesia?

Answer 4

• Postoperative fluid regimen
• Blood transfusion
• Oxygen therapy
• Pain relief
• Physiotherapy