Perioperative Nursing Management

These flashcards cover key concepts in perioperative nursing management, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations.

What are the three phases of the perioperative period?

Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative.

What factors may affect the surgical patient?

Health history, medications, nutritional status, psychosocial factors, and cultural beliefs.

Differentiate between general, regional, and local anesthesia.

General anesthesia involves unconsciousness; regional anesthesia blocks sensation in a body part; local anesthesia numbs a small area.

What is included in preadmission testing?

Admission data, verification of diagnostic testing, and assessment of postoperative needs.

List the classifications of surgical procedures by urgency.

Elective, urgent, and emergency.

What is the role of the nurse in informed consent?

Clarifies information and witnesses the patient's signature.

Name two key nursing interventions during the preoperative period.

Reducing anxiety and managing nutrition.

What medications may affect the surgical experience?

Corticosteroids, diuretics, phenothiazines, tranquilizers, antibiotics, and anticoagulants.

What should be assessed in the preoperative patient's medication history?

Potential drug interactions and effects on anesthesia.

What are common immediate preoperative nursing interventions?

Patient preparation, administering premedication, and maintaining preoperative records.

What is the significance of the postoperative phase?

It includes patient recovery and monitoring for complications.

What complications can occur during the intraoperative phase?

Anesthesia awareness, respiratory issues, and infections.

What are gerontologic considerations during surgery?

Older adults risk more complications due to age-related changes.

How can a nurse monitor for hypovolemic shock?

Assess for pallor, rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and concentrated urine.

What are the primary concerns in the PACU?

Maintaining airway patency and monitoring for complications.

What is the purpose of postoperative dressings?

To protect the wound, control drainage, and promote healing.

What does first-intention wound healing involve?

Closure of the wound edges with minimal tissue loss.

What actions should a nurse take if a patient reports nausea?

Intervene immediately to control nausea and prevent vomiting.

What strategies are important for preventing respiratory complications?

Encouraging deep breathing, turning, and ambulating the patient.

Identify a responsibility of the PACU nurse.

Assessing the airway and monitoring vital signs upon patient admission.

What is the role of the circulating nurse?

To coordinate the surgical environment and monitor the surgical team.

What should be monitored during the postoperative period?

Vital signs, pain levels, and signs of complications.

Ensure patient safety by verifying what before surgery?

Accurate patient identification and informed consent.

What types of anesthesia are commonly used for outpatient surgery?

General and moderate sedation/analgesia.

What is the nursing priority in managing postoperative pain?

Assessing comfort and administering analgesics as needed.

What is the relationship between nutrition and recovery?

Adequate nutrition supports healing and reduces complications.

How should discharge instructions be provided to a surgical patient?

In written and verbal formats, including follow-up care.

What is an important consideration for older adults in surgery?

Increased risk for confusion and altered responses due to age.

What is the goal of collaborative problems after surgery?

To effectively manage complications, such as infection and thrombosis.