Clinical Case Database / Category: Clinical Care

Postoperative recovery

Publication details

Miriam Verghese, Alexandra Crean MB FCARCSI
Foundation Years Journal, volume 6, issue 5, p.38 (123Doc Education, London, May 2012)

Abstract

Post-operative patients can be a vulnerable group and they should be monitored in an appropriate area and assessed by trained nursing staff and doctors. In order for these patients to receive optimal post-operative care we must take all the organ systems into account. Management includes optimisation of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, fluid and electrolyte management, prevention and control of sepsis, and nutrition. You should only accept responsibility for management of a post-operative patient if you feel you have been adequately equipped with the skills necessary to do so. If not, never hesitate to call for assistance from someone who will be more experienced in dealing with these patients. This article will discuss the assessment of the postoperative patient, followed by discussion of the most common postoperative complications, their differential diagnosis, and their investigation and management.

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Authors

Miriam Verghese

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meverghese@hotmail.com

Alexandra Crean MB FCARCSI

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alexandracrean@yahoo.co.uk

References

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