Surgical Nursing Protocols for Cardiothoracic Surgeries

  • Taghreed Fahad Alruwaisan et al.
Keywords: Preoperative assessmentو Informed consent, Patient education, Surgical preparation, Postoperative care, Vital signs monitoring, Pain management, Complications, Cardiac monitoring, Patient rehabilitation

Abstract

Surgical nursing protocols for cardiothoracic surgeries are critical to ensuring positive patient outcomes and minimizing complications. These protocols typically begin with a comprehensive preoperative assessment that includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, performing necessary diagnostic tests, and educating the patient and family about the procedure. Preoperative nursing involves ensuring the patient understands the informed consent process, evaluating baseline vitals, and administering prescribed medications. Additionally, nurses must prepare the operating room by ensuring all necessary equipment is sterilized and ready for use, which also involves double-checking surgical instruments and ensuring proper patient positioning on the operating table for optimal access during the procedure. Postoperative care is equally essential and focuses on monitoring the patient’s recovery closely within the intensive care unit (ICU) or step-down units. Nurses are responsible for assessing vital signs, managing pain through appropriate pharmacological measures, and observing for any signs of complications such as bleeding, infection, or respiratory distress. Continuous cardiac monitoring is also crucial, given the high risk of arrhythmias and hemodynamic instability following cardiothoracic surgeries. Collaboration with the surgical team is necessary for timely interventions, as is providing education to the patient regarding signs to watch for and rehabilitation interventions for a successful recovery.

Published
2023-10-04
Issue
Vol 2023 No Issue 2 (2023)
Section
Regular Issue
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