- Ensure the following items are available and ready for use:
a. Operation bed
b. Post anaesthetic tray
c. Oxygen cylinder
d. Suction machine
e. Vital signs tray
f. Screen
g. Infusion stand
h. Bed rails
i. Mouth care tray
2. Receive patient gently into bed and reassure him/her if conscious.
3. Place patient flat on bed with the head turned to one side or in the appropriate position according to the operation performed.
4. Provide bed rails for safety if necessary.
5. Read through the patient’s case notes for post-operative instructions.
6. Observe for level of consciousness by the use of stimulus e.g. pointed object or by calling patient’s by name.
7. Monitor patient’s vital signs for 15 minutes for first 1 hour, 30 minutes for the next hour, 1 hour for the next 4 hours and 4 hourly interval as condition stabilizes.
8. Observe for bleeding from operational site and report for possible reinforcement.
9. Ensure cannula is in situ, check the flow rate of the intravenous fluid and regulate as ordered.
10. Check and ensure that all drainage tubes e.g. naso-gastric tube and catheter are in situ and are draining well.
11. Record intake and output accurately.
12. Assess for pain and give prescribed analgesics and record.
13. Check and administer all prescribed medication per the appropriate route.
14. Maintain personal and oral hygiene.
15. Observe any abnormality in the patient’s condition and document findings and nursing interventions.
16. Put patient in a comfortable position or as ordered by surgeon when he is fully conscious.
