Title : Nursing care guidelines to prevent complication after cardiac and thoracic surgery
Abstract:
Perioperative nursing care refers to the care rendered by nursing Team during pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative stay of patients undergoing surgery. A patient undergoes different experiences during these phases with much stress and anxiety during the hospital stay ever since onset of COVID pandemic. Cordial relationship between patient and nurses during these phases significantly improves the outcome. In pre-operative period proper history taking & physical examination plays an important role in the patients before surgery and ensures safer after surgery and rehabilitation plans . During Covid pandemic we always screen all patients for covid antigen and perform RT- PCR test before the patient gets admission in CTVS ICU .If any patient is reported positive then we transfer to Covid ward till recovery .We always use integrated approach to treat the patient that improves the patient’s health status as well as outcomes after surgery. By following all covid guidlines we take care of the patients to prevent pre -op ,intra-op & post -op complications by following written protocols meticulously and involving specialists from all allied specialities as and when required . During surgery all aseptic precautions using PPE judiciously when required helped eliminating infection. Plan of surgery and steps were discussed by Team one day prior and immediately before surgery with Chief surgeon and back up plans were also decided beforehand to avoid unexpected surprises . Cardiaovascular & thoracic surgeries were performed without complications within stipulated time and patients were safely shifted back to ICU ,handing over all details of intraoperative events to ICU nurse and Intensivist . In post -op we provided all necessary care which helps to improve the recovery of the patient day by day. Our most important duty for post op patients is to prevent further complications by early anitiation of antipletelets drugs if the patient has no further risk of bleeding ,prevention of pressure sores, maintenance of all peripheral & central lines with aseptic precautions, initiation of proper nutrition early , strict nursing care , early removal of ICDs ,aseptic dressing and early ambulation. Management of comorbidities and any complications included prompt involvement of intensivist and operating surgeon as well as any other concerned specialists.Pre discharge check lists were strictly followed and patients were given proper instructions for regular follow- ups . Those requiring rehabilitation or home care were handed over to proper trained Team for further care.
Guidelines directed nursing care protocols with Integrated approach help in faster recovery of the patient, lowers risk of complications and improves outcome of patients undergoing Cardiovascular and Thoracic surgery.
The audience will learn about -
Benefits of guideline directed nursing protocols for comprehensive management of patients undergoing cardiovascular and thoracic surgeries
This knowledge will help the audience in taking care of patients at all stages including pre- operative , intra- operative and post operative period as well as during rehabilitation and follow- up .
