THE POSTOPERATIVE PATIENT AND PACU

Updated 6/25

                                               

PACU ( Post Anesthesia Care Unit)

Following surgical intervention, a patient is transferred
to an area known as PACU. . Upon arrival, a nurse will
 reorient the patient to his surroundings and do an
 assessment. 

The nurse will also follow MD orders regarding: 

- monitoring vital signs and oxygen saturation,

- administer pain medication, replace IV fluids,

- check dressings at surgical sites for bleeding 

- check drainage tubes and carry out any other

  instructions.

What is an ileus?

 An ileus may develop in the postoperative patient,

 following abdominal surgery. It may also occur from
the use of narcotics.

The warning signs include: abdominal pain, distention
and absent bowel sounds.

Learn more about:

Medical terminology in the Clinical setting

Topics include:

- DKA ( Diabetic Ketoacidosis )
- Hypothermia in the postoperative patient
- Malignant Hyperthermia its causes and treatment