Question

Discuss nursing interventions that decrease risk for complications while the patient is in the PACU.

Answer 1

NURSING INTERVENTIONS TO DECREASE COMPLICATIONS IN PACU

General post operative complications :
*primary haemorrhage-assess surgical site and wound drainage system
assess the wound colour,infection ,bleeding,stitches
assess urine output volume ,colour and concentration,urinary catheter position,patency-hourly

*shock-reduction in systolic BP can indicate hypovolemic shock that lead to inadquate tissue perfusion,damage at cellular level and ultimately organ failure.
monitor patient closely,vital signs fluid input and output
observe and record improvement and deterioration
assess and administer supplementary oxygen -monitor oxygen saturation levels above 95% to prevent hypoxia
fluid replacement
maintain fluid balance
assess for post operative nausea and vomiting

*infection:
monitor for life threatening low BP due to sepsis
assess for elevated temperature

*assess level of consciousness -disorientation,agitation,confusion

*assess for pain and provide comfort measures to relieve pain