Part B– Post-operative care

Leah returns to the surgical day ward post laparoscopic appendectomy and her first set of vital signs are recorded as follows post transfer, RR 15, Spo2 96% on 2L of oxygen, HR 66, BP 111/56, Temperature 37.0. Leah has three incisions in her abdomen each of which are individually dressed with 6cmx7cm more dressing.

Describe the nursing assessment and immediate post-operative care on return to the surgical day ward under the following headings:

1. Ineffective airway clearance

» Checking emergency equipment.

» Assessment, patient positioning, vital signs.

2. Post-operative assessment

» Risk of fluid volume deficit.

» Visual assessment, vital signs, wound assessment and management.

» Management of intake and output, oral care.