Midterm 217 1-6 week

Deep Breathing and Coughing Exercises

Exercises critical for preventing respiratory complications, particularly pneumonia, after surgery.

Incentive Spirometry

A device that encourages patients to take deep breaths by providing visual feedback on their breathing efforts.

Leg Exercises

Simple exercises such as ankle pumps, flexing, and pointing toes to promote blood circulation and reduce the risk of DVT.

Early Ambulation

The practice of getting patients moving shortly after surgery to enhance circulation, lung expansion, and gastrointestinal motility.

NPO (Nil Per Os)

A medical instruction for patients to fast for 6-12 hours before surgery to prevent aspiration during anesthesia.

Time-Out Protocol

A standard procedure involving confirmation of patient identity, surgical site, and procedure to enhance safety before surgery.

IV Line Setup

The establishment of intravenous access for administering medications, fluids, and antibiotics before surgery.

Patient Comfort and Anxiety Reduction

Strategies to alleviate preoperative anxiety through reassurance, empathy, and creating a calming environment.

Herbal Supplements

Natural products that can negatively affect anesthesia or increase bleeding risk, such as garlic and ginkgo biloba.

Lab Tests

Preoperative assessments including CBC, coagulation studies, and electrolytes to monitor patient safety.

Emergency Surgery

Surgery that must be performed immediately to save a life or preserve essential biological function.

Elective Surgery

Planned surgery that is non-emergency, allowing for thorough preoperative assessments.

Urgent Surgery

Surgery that is needed within a short timeframe to prevent serious complications.

Major Surgery

Invasive procedures that carry a higher risk of complications and require extensive planning and care.

Warfarin

An anticoagulant medication requiring discontinuation before surgery to prevent excessive bleeding.

Insulin

A hormone that may require adjustment for diabetic patients due to NPO status to avoid hypoglycemia.

Benzodiazepines

Medications used for sedation and anxiety reduction that require monitoring for respiratory effects.

Anesthesia Routes of Administration

Methods of delivering anesthesia; IV for rapid onset and inhalation for maintenance.

Informed Consent

A legal requirement where patients must understand the surgery, risks, benefits, and alternatives before proceeding.

Advance Directives

Legal documents detailing a patient's healthcare preferences when they are incapacitated.

Postoperative Ileus

A temporary condition of decreased bowel activity common after surgery.

Urinary System Monitoring

The assessment of urinary output post-surgery, which can indicate complications.

Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances

Risks faced by postoperative patients that require careful monitoring and management.

Atelectasis

A respiratory complication characterized by the collapse of alveoli, which can occur post-surgery.

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

A condition where blood clots form in deep veins, which can be prevented through early ambulation and exercises.

Hypotension in Postoperative Care

A potential indication of blood loss or anesthetic effects, requiring careful monitoring.

Pain Management

The practice of administering analgesics post-surgery to ensure patient comfort and monitor for adverse effects.

Emergence Delirium

A postoperative condition characterized by confusion or agitation, particularly in elderly patients.

Patient Safety

Ensuring that all preoperative and postoperative measures are taken to safeguard patient health.

Complications Risk Assessment

Evaluating pre-existing health conditions that could impact surgical outcomes.

Monitoring Baseline Vital Signs

Recording blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation to assess preoperative health status.

Postoperative Care Components

Key elements include respiratory support, mobility encouragement, and monitoring for complications.

Gastrointestinal Monitoring

Assessing bowel sounds and reintroducing food post-surgery to prevent complications.

Monitoring Temperature Post-Surgery

Tracking temperature changes to identify potential infections or hypothermia.

Compression Devices

Tools used to prevent DVT by promoting blood flow in postoperative patients.

Reassurance for Patients

Providing comfort to patients by addressing concerns and answering their questions preoperatively.

Patient Education on NPO Guidelines

Informing patients about fasting requirements before surgery for safety.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting Management

Observing for side effects of anesthesia and implementing comfort measures as needed.

Early Mobility Benefits

Improves blood circulation and enhances overall recovery in postoperative patients.

Visualization in Spirometry

The use of visual feedback in incentive spirometry to encourage effective deep breathing.

Detailed Medication History

Reviewing all medications, including supplements, to prevent adverse effects during surgery.

Thorough Allergy Verification

Ensuring patient allergies are documented to prevent potential complications during the procedure.

Nursing Responsibilities Pre-Surgery

Includes patient education, ensuring comfort, and managing preoperative care protocols.

Pre-Operative Assessment Purpose

To identify patient-specific risks and inform individualized care plans for surgery.