Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Introduction

• Purpose: To provide care after surgery, ensuring recovery post-anesthesia.
• Care Team: Includes nurses, anesthesiologists, and support staff trained for post-surgical care.
• Process Upon Arrival:
  • Receive surgery details and medical history.
  • Conduct a physical assessment.
  • Use monitors: blood pressure cuff, EKG, and pulse oximeter.
  • Check dressings and administer pain control as necessary.
• Discharge:
  • Transfer to room or Pre-Surgical Admissions for further instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is PACU?
   • Post Anesthesia Care Unit for patients post-surgery.
   • Attached to OR suites, managing recovery from various anesthesia types.
2. Communication with Nurses:
   • Report pain (0-10 scale) and any nausea.
   • Nurses frequently reassess pain levels.
3. Post-Surgery Feelings:
   • Normal to feel discomfort, sleepiness, dizziness, or forgetfulness.
   • Communication with nurse/anesthesiologist is crucial.
4. Family Visitation:
   • At nurse and physician discretion; varies by procedure.
5. Duration of PACU Stay:
   • Depends on surgery type, medical needs, and physician's judgment.
   • May be prolonged due to conditions like sleep apnea or medication effects.
6. Devices (CPAP/AICD):
   • Devices like CPAP, insulin/pain pumps accompany you post-PACU.
   • Implanted devices reactivated before leaving PACU.
7. Pre-Discharge Information:
   • Receive discharge instructions reviewed with family/friends.
   • Includes activity, diet restrictions, medications, and follow-up care.
8. Family Visits in PACU:
   • Permitted once vital signs stabilize.
9. Pain Medication Prescriptions:
   • Managed by anesthesiologists and surgical team.
10. Nausea Prevention:
    • Anti-emetics administered; different types used if necessary.
11. Post-PACU Destination:
    • Depends on procedure specifics and bed availability.

Staff

• Comprised of skilled nurses, anesthesiologists, and support services, ensuring comprehensive care in PACU.