What are the pre operative care for patient following gastrectomy
Pre-operative care for a patient following gastrectomy (surgical removal of all or part of the stomach) includes:
1. Assessment and diagnosis: Thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history, including any underlying medical conditions, medications, allergies, and previous surgeries. Physical examination to assess the patient's general health status, vital signs, and nutritional status.
2. Preparing for surgery: Educating the patient about the procedure, its risks and benefits, and obtaining informed consent. Preparing the patient for surgery by ensuring necessary blood tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic procedures are completed. Administering prophylactic antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection.
3. Nutritional support: Assessing the patient's nutritional status and providing nutritional counseling. Depending on the patient's individual needs, they may require a period of pre-operative nutritional optimization.
4. Bowel preparation: Administering prescribed bowel preparation medications or enemas to cleanse the intestines before surgery. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a clear surgical field.
5. Medication management: Reviewing the patient's medication regimen and discontinuing or adjusting medications that may interfere with the surgery, such as anticoagulants or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
6. Smoking cessation: Encouraging the patient to quit smoking as it can delay wound healing and increase the risk of post-operative complications.
7. Psychological support: Assessing the patient's psychological status and providing appropriate support or referral to manage anxiety, fear, or emotional distress related to the surgery.
8. Preparing for anesthesia: Evaluating the patient's anesthesia needs, including assessing airway, breathing, and circulation. Administering appropriate pre-anesthetic medications as prescribed.
9. Preoperative teaching: Educating the patient about the surgery, post-operative care, and expected lifestyle changes. This includes information about diet modifications, follow-up care, and potential complications.
10. Preparing the surgical site: Shaving or clipping hair around the surgical area if necessary and implementing appropriate measures to prevent surgical site infections.
11. Coordination with the healthcare team: Coordinating with the surgical team, anesthesiologist, and other healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care to ensure seamless transition and continuity of care.
It is important to note that the specific pre-operative care may vary depending on the individual patient, the surgeon's preferences, and the hospital's protocols.