Acute care

• What is the purpose of using BESSSOP

  wound care?

  To manage wounds effectively
• What does the term "aseptic non-touch technique" refer to?

  It prevents contamination during wound care
• What should be checked when assessing a wound?

  Bed- check level of healing

  Exudate- amount and colour

  Site - redness or heat

  Size- measure length, width and depth

  Surrounding skin- healthy,dry,red?

  Odour - any Odour

  Pain - is there any pain
• How often should dressings be changed?

  Every 24 hours or as needed
• What is the significance of the NEWS2 score?

  It assesses patient deterioration risk
• What does the term "hydrogels" refer to in wound care?

  They absorb water and maintain moisture
• What is the role of anti-microbial dressings?

  To reduce infection risk in wounds
• What should be monitored in post-operative care?

  Signs of infection, pyrexia and complications
• How often should observations be monitored post-surgery?

  Every 15 minutes for the first 1 hours

  Every 30 minutes for the second hour

  Hourly for 2 hours
• What is the purpose of accurate fluid balance monitoring?

  To prevent fluid overload and dehydration
• What should be done if a wound opens post-surgery?

  Put the patient in low fowler position to reduce pressure
• What is the importance of patient education in recovery?

  It promotes independence and understanding
• What are common complications after surgery?

  Infection (sepsis pneumonia), hemorrhage, wound reopening, DVT and bowel obstruction
• What is the role of antibiotics in post-operative care?

  To prevent or treat infections
• How can early mobilization benefit post-operative patients?

  It reduces the risk of complications such as dvt and promote independence
• What should be monitored for signs of sepsis?

  Temperature and heart rate (tachy), confusion and sweating
• What is the significance of blood cultures post-surgery?

  To identify potential infections to know how to treat
• What should be done if a patient shows signs of internal bleeding?

  Notify the surgical team immediately
• What are the key components of post-operative care?

  • Monitor vital signs and observations
  • Manage pain effectively
  • Ensure fluid balance
  • Educate the patient on recovery
  • Assess for complications
• What are the common signs of wound complications?

  • Redness and swelling
  • Increased pain or tenderness
  • Discharge or pus
  • Fever or chills
• What are the steps to manage a post-operative wound?

  1. Consent
  2. Dignity and privacy
  3. PPE
  4. Aseptic non touch technique
  5. Remove dressing
  6. Cleanse with normal saline
  7. Apply new dressing or leave exposed of patient agrees
  8. Clips can be exposed 24 hours after however patient may want covered
  9. Use BESSSOP with assessment of wound
• What are the potential complications of surgery?

  • Infection
  • Hemorrhage
  • DVT
  • Wound dehiscence
  • Bowel obstruction
• What is the importance of fluid management in post-operative care?

  • Prevents dehydration
  • Reduces risk of fluid overload
  • Supports wound healing
  • Maintains electrolyte balance
• What should be included in a post-operative assessment?

  • Pain level assessment
  • News2
  • O2 therapy- 2L nasal spects when more alert can wean
  • Wound inspection
  • Fluid intake and output tracking
  • Education
  • Promote mobility
• What should patients be educated about regarding their symptoms?

  Signs and symptoms on infection
• What is a focus of education related to respiratory health during discharge?

  No smoking

  Breathing exercises
• What type of activity is encouraged for patients upon discharge?

  Try get back to normal life slowly
• Who is responsible for educating patients about discharge medications?

  Pharmacy
• What medications may need to be prescribed at discharge?

  Analgesics and or antibiotics
• What is the purpose of a pace chart in discharge instructions?

  To track wound healing
• What lifestyle change should be discussed with patients at discharge?

  Smoking cessation
• Why is mobility discussed during discharge planning?

  To prevent DVT
• What document is provided to the GP upon discharge?

  Discharge letter
• What might patients need regarding work after discharge?

  Bile/sick line
• What social considerations should be addressed during discharge?

  Transport availability
• What might patients need help with regarding appointments?

  Follow-up appointments
• How can social factors affect patient care after discharge?

  May not be able to go to normal activities and socialise

  Can't
• What is the impact of discharge on social life?

  It can affect coping mechanisms
• What should be discussed regarding care plans after discharge?

  Options and plans for care
• What is encouraged for patients to promote self-care?

  Encouragement of self-care practices