Identifying Patients in Risk of Post-operative Complications Using PACU Discharge Criteria

Overview

In the Postoperative Care Unit surgical patients are monitored closely to ensure safe condition before transfer to the ward. This study will aim to identify patients in risk of complications on the ward using the national postanesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge criteria, a modified Aldretes score. Secondary to identify patients in risk of micro events as detected by continuous monitoring of vital signs on the ward.

Patients undergoing esophageal resection and pancreaticoduodenectomy are at high risk of developing complications after surgery. Described patient groups are monitored for at least 24 hours in PACU before returning to the ward. In Denmark physiological parameters are assessed in the PACU every hour until discharge using the DASAIM discharge criteria (A modified Aldrete score). The PACU discharge score is calculated on parameters including sedation, respiratory rate, saturation, systolic blood pressure, puls, physical capability (if epidural or spinal anesthesia), pain in rest, nausea, diuresis and temperature. Each parameter is given a score between 0 and 3. 0 describes no problem and 3 describes a severe problem. The investigators will investigate the predictive value of the PACU discharge criteria and interventions in the PACU setting, to identify patients at risk of developing postoperative complications. Secondary outcome is micro events on the ward. Patients vital signs are monitored continuously from PACU discharge until the 5th postoperative day. Micro events are defined as deviations of vital parameters from normal range.

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes