Question

The PACU nurse has received a patient, and all the following assessments are included in the initial assessment. In which order should the nurse perform the following actions for the patient with no complications? (Answer with a letter followed by a comma and a space (e.g. A, B, C, D).)

a. Surgical site
b. Neurologic
c. Circulation
d. Output
e. Airway
f. Gastrointestinal
g. Breathing

Answer 1

In order to assess a patient in the PACU, a nurse should follow the order of assessing airway, breathing, circulation, surgical site, neurologic status, and output.

Step-by-step explanation:

1. The nurse should first assess the patient's airway to ensure its patency and availability of appropriate equipment.
2. Next, the nurse should assess the patient's breathing, including respiratory rate, depth, and oxygen saturation.
3. After that, the nurse should assess the patient's circulation, including heart rate, blood pressure, and peripheral pulses.
4. The nurse should then assess the patient's surgical site for any signs of bleeding, infection, or other complications.
5. The nurse should also assess the patient's neurologic status, including level of consciousness and motor function.
6. Lastly, the nurse should assess the patient's output, such as urine output and drainage from surgical drains, if applicable.
7. It is important to note that this order may vary depending on the specific patient and their condition.