(2)
Keep the patient warm and comfortable.
(3)
If call bells are in the wall unit, teach the patient how to use them (if
he is alert). Keep them readily available for the patient.
(4)
Position the patient so that he is not resting on his tubes and thus
preventing future skin breakdown.
(5)
No head pillow is used for the unconscious patient or for 8 hours
following spinal anesthesia.
(6)
The patient's head is turned to one side when the patient is in the
supine position so that secretions can drain from the mouth, and the tongue cannot fall
back into the throat to block the air passages.
f.
Prevent nosocomial infections by washing your hands before and after
working with each patient. Maintain aseptic technique for incisional wound care and
turn the patient frequently to prevent respiratory infections.
g.
Observe for and report any feeling/movement of the patient if he has had a
spinal anesthetic.
(1)
Spinal anesthesia wears off slowly.
(2)
Observe for spontaneous movements as recovery time goes by.
(3)
Movement usually returns before feelings and is first observed in the
patient's toes and then moves up the legs.
(4)
As anesthesia wears off, the patient will begin to have sensation
often described as "pins and needles."
(5)
Keep the patient in the supine position for 6 to 8 hours to prevent
spinal headache.
(6)
The patient may turn from side to side and prop up with pillows if the
physician permits. This is done to relieve pressure from his back, but only for a few
minutes at a time.
MD0915
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