

Lightning rounds 47: Post-op care transitions
Nov 27, 2024
The discussion dives into the crucial handoff procedures during patient transitions from the operating room to the ICU. Emphasis is placed on effective communication between surgical and anesthesia teams, which is vital for patient safety. The evolving practices of post-operative care are explored, especially the direct transfer to the ICU. Challenges in managing post-operative care for patients with comorbidities and the need for detailed protocols and collaboration are also highlighted, ensuring comprehensive care and improved outcomes in critical situations.
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Expanding ICU Recovery Roles
- Increasingly, patients come directly to ICU from procedures beyond the OR, such as interventional cardiology and IR.
- Understanding local workflows and phase one anesthesia recovery capabilities is critical for safe post-op ICU transitions.
Ensure Team Presence at Handoff
- Always try to have someone from anesthesia present during ICU transfer for direct handoff.
- Seek surgical presence especially for complex cases to clarify procedure details and concerns.
Ask Thorough Handoff Questions
- Ask detailed questions about the procedure, patient's anatomy changes, blood loss, and fluid management.
- Clarify any emergency context and gather qualitative narrative to understand stability and risks.