Perioperative Nursing Overview

Using specific techniques and working as a team, surgical staff minimizes risks and achieves the best possible outcomes for patients.

The risk of fire in an operating room is increased by factors such as alcohol-based skin preps, surgical drapes, oxidizing gases (like nitrous oxide), and the use of lasers.

Instruments and materials used during surgery are meticulously counted before, during, and after the procedure to ensure nothing is left inside the patient.

Anesthesia can have various effects depending on the patient's condition and the type of anesthetic used. Reactions can range from moderate sedation to severe complications.

Older adults face greater challenges during surgery due to factors such as decreased heart and lung function, reduced tissue elasticity, and slower elimination of drugs.

This type of anesthesia numbs a specific area of the body using agents like lidocaine, often used for minor procedures.

This type of anesthesia is injected into the spinal cord, typically in the lower back, providing pain relief for several hours.

This anesthesia is delivered into the epidural space, often through a catheter, providing pain relief for longer periods.

A high-pitched breathing sound often indicating airway obstruction.

A serious condition involving both clotting and bleeding simultaneously.

Administering medications to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting.

A vital sign that reflects the body's ability to transport oxygenated blood throughout the body.

A position commonly used for gynecological procedures.

Any procedure involving the insertion of a tube into the trachea to maintain an open airway.

A temporary loss of memory.

A device used to measure blood oxygen saturation.

A condition where a patient's body temperature drops below normal.

The period after surgery when a patient is recovering and being closely monitored for complications.

Use of devices like binders to support abdominal wounds and prevent them from opening up.

Assess for redness, swelling, or pain under areas where devices are applied to prevent skin damage.

Monitoring for signs of fluid imbalance, including swelling, changes in blood pressure, and breathing difficulty.

Being alert for early signs of infection, especially in wounds, tubes, and drains.

Using special devices to prevent blood clots, encouraging movement, and giving medications as needed.

Teaching patients and families how to care for wounds and change dressings, ensuring they're qualified before discharge.

In cases of a wound opening up or organs coming out, cover it with a saline dressing and call the surgeon immediately.

Providing emotional support, protecting patient privacy, and addressing concerns related to procedures involving cancer or chronic illnesses.

Ensuring oxygen systems are working correctly and providing suction or oxygen therapy as needed.

Encouraging patients to get up and move, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and using medications as needed to prevent constipation.

Patients who require pain management, especially those with conditions like cancer or chronic pain, should not be automatically labeled as drug-seeking. Instead, focus on their individual needs and provide appropriate care.

If a patient reports their current medication isn't effective, conduct a thorough assessment. This includes examining their vital signs, medical history, and medication regimen. Consider alternatives, like anti-inflammatory medications or therapies targeting underlying issues.

Many patients with substance use disorders developed dependence initially through prescribed pain medications. Understand that higher dosage needs don't always equal drug-seeking behavior.

Advocate for the patient's comfort and well-being. Educate them about non-pharmacological pain management options, like relaxation techniques and distraction. If a deeper issue is suspected, consult with the healthcare team to ensure comprehensive care.

Treat each patient with respect and dignity, regardless of their medical history or behavior. Avoid judgments and preconceived notions, as they can hinder critical issues from being addressed.

Address the patient's needs holistically. This includes understanding their social, emotional, and financial context. Explore long-term solutions, particularly for patients with chronic conditions or limited access to medications, to ensure continuity of care.

Avoid prejudging patients based on their medical history or assumptions about their behavior. Judgment can lead to overlooking critical issues, potentially resulting in negative consequences.

Patients who require an interpreter, videos, or large print for post-operative instructions should receive the assistance they need.

After surgery, patients should gradually increase their activity levels to prevent weakness and setbacks.

If a patient's blood pressure drops significantly after surgery, such as 70/40 or 80/60, it may indicate they are not ready to be transferred to a lower level of care. Report this finding to the physician immediately.

Patients should be taught coughing and deep breathing exercises to prevent respiratory complications. Splinting their incision can reduce pain during these exercises.

Pain tolerance can vary greatly between individuals, especially those with chronic pain or those on long-term opioid therapy. These patients may require higher doses due to tolerance.

In addition to medications, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and other non-medical methods can help manage postoperative pain.

Closely monitor the patient's wound for signs of infection, delayed healing, or any other changes.

Ensure patients understand the appearance of their wound and how drains work. Provide clear explanations about the recovery process.

If a patient is deemed unstable or not ready for a lower level of care, notify the physician immediately. Nurses act as advocates for their patients.

Assess pain frequently and document the medication given, the pain level before and after administration, and reassess after the medication has had time to work.