The Role of Nursing in Preoperative Assessment for Respiratory Surgery Patients

  • Ayman Khalil I Alaqoul et al.
Keywords: Nursing, preoperative assessment, respiratory surgery, patient education, health history, physical examination, lung function optimization, emotional support, communication, patient advocacy.

Abstract

Nursing plays a critical role in the preoperative assessment of respiratory surgery patients by ensuring comprehensive evaluations that address physical, emotional, and educational needs. Nurses begin by conducting thorough health histories and physical examinations, focusing on the patient’s respiratory history, comorbidities, and current medication use. This assessment helps identify potential risks and informs the surgical team of necessary precautions or preoperative interventions, such as optimizing lung function, managing chronic conditions, and ensuring smoking cessation when applicable. Moreover, nurses provide valuable education to patients regarding the surgical procedure, potential complications, and postoperative expectations, promoting a sense of empowerment and readiness. In addition to clinical assessments, nursing involvement in preoperative care includes effective communication and emotional support. Nurses serve as a bridge between the patient and the surgical team, ensuring that any concerns or anxiety related to the surgery are addressed. They facilitate preoperative testing, such as pulmonary function tests and imaging studies, and assess the patient's understanding of the procedures and post-surgical care instructions. By fostering a supportive environment and advocating for the patient’s needs, nurses significantly contribute to enhanced patient outcomes and reduced risk of complications during and after respiratory surgeries.

Published
2023-02-04
Section
Regular Issue