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Perioperative Observation Experience. I Observed A Laparoscopic

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Perioperative Observation Experience
I observed a laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center. In this paper, I will cover pre-operative tasks, surgical procedure, anesthesia and interventions, roles and functions of the nurse, and surgical team members. I will also cover safety and comfort concerns along with nursing diagnoses related to this surgery.
Pre-Operative Data Collection and Medications
Pre-operative data collection was obtained in the ambulatory minor surgery unit (AMSU). A communication sheet was filled out that collects patient data such as their diagnosis, the procedure they are having, drug allergies, vital signs, IV placement, and their current medications. This information is documented by the AMSU …show more content…

Propofol was administered to put the patient to sleep initially. The patient was kept asleep with anesthesia gases. These gases are fluorinated ethers combined with nitrous oxide. A paralytic was also administered to keep the patient’s muscles from moving during the procedure. During the procedure, the CRNA monitored the patient’s vitals, especially the blood pressure. The blood pressure decreases prior to the initial incision and will increase after the cut is made. The CRNA was monitoring that the patient’s blood pressure did not get too low before the incision was made. The CRNA also made sure the patient was positioned to prevent injury such as pulled muscles and pinched nerves.
Roles and Functions of the Nurse The AMSU, or pre-operative nurse, is responsible for the pre-operative assessment. In this assessment, the nurse obtains vitals, receives a health history, and documents current medications the patient is taking. In the OR, the nurse is a circulating nurse. The nurse operates outside of the sterile field. They are responsible for charting information during the surgery and ensuring safety precautions are in place. The circulating nurse is responsible for collaborating with all other surgical team members. In the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), the nurse is responsible for assessing the patient’s condition by taking and recording vital signs. The PACU nurse also helps rouse the patient still recovering from anesthesia and is responsible for reacting

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