Bedside Handover

Summary

In this post-operative care dialogue, Nurse Sally conducts a thorough bedside assessment of patient Sandra Jones, who is recovering from an open cholecystectomy. The conversation highlights Sandra's medical history, current medications, and progress, including pain management and bowel health. Sally reassures Sandra about her recovery, discusses the importance of mobility and hydration, and plans for further blood tests. With a focus on patient comfort and safety, the interaction reflects compassionate nursing care and emphasizes the patient's desire to return home, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for Sandra's recovery.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sally introduces herself as the co-owner and nurse responsible for Sandra's care during the afternoon.
• 😀 Sandra confirms her full name and date of birth, as well as her allergy to penicillin.
• 😀 Sandra was admitted for an open cholecystectomy and initially experienced pain and fever, treated with IV antibiotics.
• 😀 The IV drip has been removed, and Sandra is now taking oral medications, with her pain well-managed.
• 😀 The medical team is monitoring Sandra's bowel movements, as they have not yet returned to normal.
• 😀 Sally emphasizes the importance of hydration and mobility to aid Sandra's recovery.
• 😀 Sandra has a history of high blood pressure and has been using a walking stick for support.
• 😀 Observations show stable temperature and blood pressure, with Sandra's pain rating at 3 out of 10 after her shower.
• 😀 Blood tests are scheduled for the next morning to check Sandra's health status before potential discharge.
• 😀 Sandra expresses a desire to return home and actively participates in discussions about her care plan.

Q & A

What is the patient's name and date of birth?

The patient's name is Sandra Jones, and her date of birth is January 1, 1960.

What type of surgery did Sandra undergo?

Sandra had an open cholecystectomy, which involves the removal of the gallbladder.

What was Sandra's condition when she was first admitted?

Initially, Sandra was experiencing significant pain and had an elevated temperature, requiring IV antibiotics.

What changes were made to Sandra's medication during her stay?

Her IV drip was removed, and she was transitioned to oral tablets for pain management and other medications.

What is the current concern regarding Sandra's recovery?

The main concern is that Sandra's bowels have not yet opened, which is crucial for her recovery.

How is Sandra's pain currently managed?

Sandra's pain is managed with regular Panadol and additional medication before her showers.

What is the purpose of the Ted stockings mentioned in the transcript?

Ted stockings are used to promote circulation and prevent blood clots in patients after surgery.

What did the medical team observe about Sandra's skin?

During a skin inspection, no red marks were found, indicating that her skin integrity is intact.

What did Sandra's husband inquire about?

Sandra's husband was eager to know when she would be able to go home.

What encouragement was given regarding physical activity?

Sandra was encouraged to take short walks and continue deep breathing and coughing exercises to aid her recovery.