Perioperative care

Question 1

What are examples of pre and post assessments needed in perioperative care

Answer 1

Pre-operative – prep - baseline vitals, medication history, allergies, informed consent (right 7), anesthetic assessment, risk assessment, education

Post-operative – PACU nurse, ABC, vital signs, wounds, IV, fluid balance pain (5th vital sign)

Question 2

Principles of IV Fluid admin and what are you monitoring

Answer 2

Proper administration is essential to maintain hydration, electrolyte balance, and overall fluid status, as well as to correct dehydration and support recovery from illness or surgery.

*Fluid balance (weight I/O)
*Vital signs - increased BP might mean fluid overload, temp if IV in
*Peripheral/Central circulation - pulses, turgor, capilliary refill
*Electrolyte levels - blood test ie renal function (BUN-blood urea nitrogen)
*Iv infusion rate

Question 3

Main 3 types of IV Fluids

Answer 3

1. Crystalloids: These are aqueous solutions containing water, electrolytes, and small molecules. They are used to restore fluid balance and maintain hydration.

*Isotonic: Fluids with the same osmolarity as the blood (e.g., Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl), Ringer’s Lactate).
*Hypotonic: Fluids with lower osmolarity than blood, used to hydrate cells (e.g., Half Normal Saline (0.45% NaCl)).
*Hypertonic: Fluids with higher osmolarity than blood, used for specific conditions like edema or hyponatremia (e.g., 3% NaCl, Dextrose in Saline).

2. Colloids: These contain larger molecules (proteins or starches) that help draw water into the bloodstream to maintain blood volume (e.g., albumin, dextran).
3. Blood Products: These include whole blood, plasma, red blood cells, and platelets, typically used to treat anemia or significant blood loss.