Sunday, October 6, 2024

IMMEDIATE POST OPERATIVE CARE OF A PATIENT

Table of Contents

REQUIREMENTS #

  1. Operation bed with side rails
  2. Post anaethestic tray e.g. vomit bowl, wound dressing set, padded spatula or tongue holding forceps, receiver for soiled swab, adhesive tape, sterile gauze etc
  3. Oxygen apparatus
  4. Suction machine
  5. Vital signs tray
  6. Medication tray
  7. Infusion stand
  8. Mouth care tray
  9. Observation chart

STEPS #

  1. Assess patient level of consciousness by the use of stimulus e.g. pointed object or by calling patient by name
  2. Remove hot water bottles and receive patient gently into bed
  3. Place patient flat on bed with the head turned to one side or in the appropriate position according to the operation performed
  4. Reassure patient if conscious
  5. Provide side rails for safety if necessary
  6. Read through the patient’s case notes for post-operative instructions
  7. Observe operational site for bleeding and report for possible reinforcement
  8. Monitor vital signs for 15minutes for first one hour, 30 minutes for the next hour, 1 hour for the next 4 hours and 4 hourly intervals as condition stabilizes
  9. Ensure cannula is in situ, check the flow rate of the intravenous fluid and regulate as ordered
  10. Check and ensure that all drainage tubes e.g. naso-gastric tube and catheter are in situ and are draining well
  11. Record intake and output accurately
  12. Assess for pain, administer prescribed analgesics and record
  13. Check and administer all prescribed medication per the appropriate route
  14. Maintain personal and oral hygiene
  15. Observe any abnormality in the patient’s condition
  16. Put patient in a desirable position or as ordered by surgeon when he/she is fully conscious
  17. Follow nutritional orders as prescribed by the surgeon
  18. Educate patient and relatives on post-operative restrictions if any
  19. Document findings and nursing interventions in appropriate notes (manual or electronic)

Last updated : 2021-11-15 18:58:39