Complication prevention

Complication prevention is done to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes after surgery.

- It involves implementing various measures to prevent or manage common postoperative complications, such as bleeding, infection, thromboembolism, hypothermia, hypoxia, nausea and vomiting, allergic reaction, nerve damage, or paralysis.

- Some examples of these measures are applying pressure or ice to the surgical site, administering antibiotics or anticoagulants as ordered, encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises, using warming devices or blankets, administering oxygen or bronchodilators as ordered, providing antiemetics or fluids as ordered, administering antihistamines or steroids as ordered, assessing for sensory and motor function or neurovascular status.

- Education and support are essential to prepare the patient for discharge and self-care at home.

- They include providing information about wound care, pain management, activity restrictions, dietary modifications, medication instructions, and follow-up appointments.

- They also involve addressing any questions or concerns that the patient may have and providing emotional support and reassurance.

- Recovery promotion is done to facilitate the patient’s return to normal functioning and optimal health.

- It involves assessing the patient’s readiness for discharge based on their physical and psychosocial status, achieving expected outcomes, and meeting discharge criteria.

- It also involves collaborating with the patient, family, and multidisciplinary team to plan and coordinate the discharge process and ensure continuity of care.