Post-Operative: Cardiovascular System

• What are the key assessments for monitoring a patient?

  Skin colour, cap refill, pulses
• What vital signs should be monitored?

  Pulse, BP, temperature
• How often should vital signs be checked in the first hour?

  Every 15 minutes
• What is the frequency of vital signs monitoring after the first hour?

  Every 30 minutes for 2 hours
• What is the next frequency of monitoring after the second hour?

  Every hour for 2 hours
• What are the expected normal findings in a patient?

  Normal HR/BP, temperature, colour
• What should be expected regarding bleeding after surgery?

  Bleeding as expected based on surgery
• What heart rhythm complications should be monitored?

  Changes in BP/HR, rhythm abnormal
• What is the main cause of hypothermia?

  Low temperature, shivering, piloerection
• What is a risk associated with hemorrhage?

  Risk of hypovolemic shock
• What are the signs of hypotension?

  Decreased BP, increased HR
• What are dysrhythmias?

  Changes in BP/HR, rhythm abnormal
• What are the preventative interventions for maintaining fluid volume status?

  • Support fluid volume status
  • Monitor wounds for bleeding
  • Apply pressure to site if bleeding
  • Call for help if bleeding increases
• What happens to blood flow with immobility?

  Causes pain, cramping, leg swelling
• What are the symptoms of blood flow issues due to immobility?

  SOB, chest pain
• What is the best option to help blood flow return to the heart?

  Prophylaxis with Low Molecular Weight Heparins
• What are the risks associated with Low Molecular Weight Heparins?

  Risk of bleeding, but less than heparin
• How should Low Molecular Weight Heparins be administered?

  S/C injections 2 inches from umbilicus
• What should be avoided after administering Low Molecular Weight Heparins?

  Never rub site or aspirate
• What is a normal reaction after administering Low Molecular Weight Heparins?

  Mild bruising is normal