Question

Instructions
1. Read the scenario and answer the questions to the best of your abilities and
understanding of post-operative nursing care.
2. Critically consider each question before answering.
3. Consult your prescribed books (Nursing Sciences) and Practical Workbook.

Scenario
You are working in a surgical ward and have 4 patients in your care today. Two of your
patients were assigned for surgery early morning. It is 12h00 and the theatre called the ward
saying that patient One is ready for collection from theatre.
Answer the following questions:
1. List 5 important aims of post-operative care in meeting the physical needs of the post-
operative patient. (5)
2. There are actions listed in your Practical Workbook on the Preparation to receive a
patient post-operatively. To each action, explain reason/s for taking this action. (4)
3. Explain the reasons for receiving a full report from the theatre staff on the condition of
the patient. (2)
4. Explain the importance of recovery room base line data. (2)
5. One of the reasons for covering the patient with blankets is to avoid hypothermia.
Describe the physiological effects of hypothermia on the patient. (5)
6. This patient had an abdominal operation. Why would you position the patient in a semi-
fowler’s position? (5)
7. This patient has a wound drainage tube as well as a urine catheter. Explain the reasons
for checking on the following:
7.1 Wound drainage tube (3)
7.2 Urine catheter (3)
8. You noticed that the patient is restless and that his pulse and breathing is increasing.
Upon enquiring, the patient describes discomfort and pain in the lower parts of his body.
8.1 Describe general measures to relieve pain and promote comfort. (2)
8.2 Dr has prescribed Pethidine 75mg IMI bd for 2 days. There are only 50mg/ml vials
in stock.
a. List the principles of safe administration of this medication. (6)
b. Show your calculation of the medication. (4)
c. List the possible side-effects you may observe in the patient. (4)

Answer 1

ANSWER 1: FIVE IMPORTANT AIMS OF POSTOPERATIVE CARE IN MEETING THE PHYSICAL NEEDS OF THE POSTOPERATIVE PATIENT:

1. PREVENTION OF SPREAD OF INFECTION.
2. TO PROMOTE HEALING OF THE SURGICAL INCISION.
3. REGULAR MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PATIENT 'S VITAL SIGNS.
4. RESPIRATORY STATUS SHOULD BE ASSESSED.
5. MONITORING OF PAIN AND RECORDING THE PAIN SCALE.

ANSWER 3:REASONS FOR RECEIVING A FULL REPORT FROM THE THEATRE STAFF ON THE CONDITION OF THE PATIENT:

1. DETAILED REPORT RECEIVED FROM THE PATIENT WILL RESULT IN EFFECTIVE POSTOPERATIVE CARE.
2. MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS ABOUT VITAL SIGNS BEFORE AND DURING SURGERY WILL BE HELPFUL IN COMPARING THE VALUES AND MAINTAIN STABLE VITALS IN THE POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD.
3. PREVENTION OF WORSENING OF SYMPTOMS AND DETERIORATION.

ANSWER 4:IMPORTANCE OF RECOVERY ROOM BASE LINE DATA:

• PREVENTION OF COMPLICATIONS OF ANESTHESIA AND SURGERY AFTER RECEIVING THE PATIENT FROM THE THEATRE.
• PRE-OPERATIVE AND INTRA- OPERATIVE DATA ARE USED .
• MAINTENANCE OF VITALS AND THE PATIENT WILL BE STABILIZED IN THIS PHASE.

ANSWER 5:REASON FOR COVERING THE PATIENT WITH BLANKET TO REDUCE HYPOTHERMIA :

• TO AVOID PATIENT TO SUFFER FROM CHILLS AND RIGORS .