Pre-operative and Post-operative Nursing Care
Peri-operative nursing spans preparation before surgery and recovery afterwards. Nurses ensure consent, safety, airway protection, and complication prevention.
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What you must know about Peri-operative Care
Pre-operatively, confirm informed consent is signed and valid before surgery.
Ensure the patient is fasted (nil by mouth) as ordered to reduce aspiration risk.
Immediate post-op priority is airway, breathing, and circulation.
Position the unconscious post-op patient laterally (recovery position) to protect the airway.
Monitor for haemorrhage, shock, hypoxia, and level of consciousness after surgery.
Encourage early mobilisation, deep breathing, and leg exercises to prevent DVT and chest complications.
NMCN Exam Tips
How this topic appears in the NMCN exam
Immediate post-op priority is always airway/breathing (ABC).
Position the unconscious post-op patient on their side to prevent aspiration.
Verify signed informed consent before transferring to theatre.
Early ambulation prevents DVT and respiratory complications.
Practice Question
Test yourself
Immediately after surgery, an unconscious patient is returned to the ward. The MOST appropriate position to prevent airway obstruction and aspiration is:
Explanation
The lateral or recovery position allows secretions to drain and keeps the tongue from obstructing the airway, preventing aspiration in the unconscious post-operative patient until protective reflexes return.
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