Pre-op and Post-op Flashcards
(39 cards)
What is Post-Operative Care?
Nursing care and interventions required to ensure recovery from anaesthetised state back to patients ‘normal’ (pre-anaesthetic) baseline state.
What does post-operative care include?
Post-op care includes:
* Handover from PACU
* Return to ward
* Post-op care according to specific surgery instructions
* Monitoring haemodynamics, airway, CNS, pain
* Early recognition of potential complications.
Where is the Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU) typically located?
Near the operating rooms, usually a large open room divided into individual patient care spaces.
What is the primary focus of post-operative care?
Focus on haemodynamics, airway, CNS, and pain management.
What are the three phases of post-anaesthesia care?
The three phases are:
* Phase 1: Immediate post-anaesthesia period
* Phase 2: Continued recovery with stable functioning
* Phase 3: Ongoing care for extended observation.
What is ‘fast-tracking’ in post-anaesthesia care?
When patients bypass phase 1 and go directly from the Operating Room to phase 2.
What role does the Enrolled Nurse play in post-operative care?
The EN should understand the surgery, be familiar with post-op documentation, assess potential complications, and implement nursing care.
What equipment is needed for post-operative assessment?
Equipment needed includes:
* IV stand and pump
* Dressing supplies
* Warm blankets
* Specific equipment for certain surgeries.
What are common side effects of general anaesthesia?
Common side effects include:
* Nausea and vomiting
* Sore throat
* Post-operative delirium
* Muscle aches
* Itching
* Chills and shivering.
What does ISOBAR stand for in handover communication?
ISOBAR stands for:
* Identify
* Situation
* Observation
* Background
* Agreed plan
* Read back.
What is the importance of pain relief in post-operative care?
Pain relief is crucial as pain adversely affects the outcome of surgery.
What are the effects of pain on organ systems?
Effects of pain include:
* Cardiovascular: Increased heart rate, vasoconstriction
* Respiratory: Shallow breathing, decreased coughing
* Gastrointestinal: Nausea, delayed gastric function
* Endocrine: Increased blood glucose.
What is the most commonly used drug for pain management?
Paracetamol is the most commonly used drug for pain management.
What are common opioids used for post-operative analgesia?
Common opioids include:
* Codeine
* Morphine
* Hydromorphone
* Fentanyl
* Oxycodone.
What are side effects of NSAIDs?
Side effects include:
* GI upset
* Delayed healing
* Increased risk of bleeding.
When are antibiotics given in relation to surgery?
Antibiotics can be given pre-surgery, post-surgery prophylactically, or may not be indicated at all.
What are common side effects of antiemetics?
Common side effects include:
* Headache
* Constipation
* Drowsiness
* Dry mouth.
What are the routes for administration of anticoagulants?
Routes for administration include:
* Subcutaneous
* Intravenous.
Fill in the blank: The PACU is a specialized ward for _______.
[advanced monitoring]
What is the purpose of pre-operative care?
To ensure patient safety, understanding of the procedure, and optimal health outcomes
Pre-operative care begins when surgical intervention is first considered and ends when the patient goes to theatre.
What role does the EN play in pre-operative care?
The EN is involved in the preparation, education, and monitoring of the patient before surgery
This includes assessing the patient’s health status and addressing any concerns.
What are the types of surgical procedures categorized under acute care?
- Emergency
- Trauma
- Diagnostic
- Exploratory
- Curative
How should critically ill patients be prioritized for surgery?
Before non-critical or elective surgery patients
This prioritization is crucial to prevent further damage.
What characterizes major surgical procedures?
Extensive and involving significant actions with serious risk to the patient
Examples include emergency trauma cases.
