8.4. Patient monitoring during surgery: Effective communication with the surgical team about the patient's status

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8.4. Patient monitoring during surgery: Effective communication with the surgical team about the patient's status

The role of the nursing professional in the operating room is essential for patient safety and well-being. One of the most important functions is patient monitoring during surgery, which involves effective communication with the surgical team about the patient's status. This chapter discusses in detail how this function is performed.

Patient monitoring

Patient monitoring during surgery is a critical task that requires knowledge, skill and constant attention. The nurse should monitor the patient's vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature, to detect any changes that might indicate a complication. In addition, the nurse must monitor the patient's response to anesthesia and the surgical procedure itself.

Effective communication with the surgical team

Effective communication with the surgical team is critical to patient safety. The nurse should inform the staff of any changes in the patient's condition so that corrective measures can be taken immediately. Communication must be clear, concise and timely. The nurse must use appropriate medical terminology and ensure that the information is understood by all staff members.

Importance of effective communication

Effective communication is vital to patient safety. Research shows that many medical errors and adverse events are caused by miscommunication. For example, if the nurse fails to communicate a drop in the patient's blood pressure to the surgical team, this can lead to serious complications such as hypovolemic shock. Therefore, effective communication can literally save lives.

Strategies to improve communication

There are several strategies that can be used to improve communication in the OR. One is the use of surgical checklists, which can help ensure that all important information is communicated. Another is conducting briefings and debriefings, which can help the team prepare for and learn from surgery. In addition, training in communication skills can be helpful in improving the clarity and effectiveness of communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, patient monitoring during surgery and effective communication with the surgical team are crucial functions of the nurse in the OR. These roles require knowledge, skill, and constant attention. In addition, they require effective communication, which is vital for patient safety. It is therefore essential that nurses are trained and supported to perform these roles effectively.

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138.5. Patient monitoring during surgery: Recognizing and responding to changes in patient status