Postoperative nursing management, the PACU (exam #2)

Postoperative nursing management, the PACU (exam #2) What are the 3 phases of recovery that occur in the PACU? 1) Immediate recovery phase: intensive nursing care provided. 2) Less intensive care: patient prepared for self care in PACU or transfer to an inpatient unit or outpatient unit. 3) Extended care/observation unit: patient prepared for discharge. What specific information does the OR nurse give the PACU nurse? overall tolerance, type of surgery, type of anesthetics, results, complications, I&O's. What should the nurse remember about the patient psychological equilibrium in the PACU? speak calmly, orient, quiet atmosphere body alignment, explain, remember hearing is last to go. What are the PACU nurse's priority of concerns when the patient arrives from the OR? assessment: VS, respiratory status, color, fluid intake, special equipment, dressing. Positioning of the head to side or lateral sims. What respiratory functions is the nurse responsible for managing? airway until gag reflex is ok. position, suction, cough/deep breathe, O2, mechanical support, check breath sounds, prevent aspirations. What does the PACU nurse monitor regarding fluid status? blood loss, IV rate, outputs, bladder distention, electrolyte, hydration, character of drainage, NG tube, N&V.