View Full Version : Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)


Leigh
09-09-2006, 06:46 PM
This is from an information pamphlet I received for my son's scopes. It is just meant as a guideline as each hospital may have their own set and things may vary. Be sure to ask your GI or hospiral for information which will be appropriate for your child's situation.:wink:


What is the PACU?

Children come to the Post Anesthetic Care Unit following their surgery or special procedures.

There may be many children in this area at one time.

Each child reacts differently to anesthesia. Some children may cry and be restless upon waking and others may seem to sleep for an unusually long period of time. All of these responses are normal.

What care is given in the PACU?

A specially trained nurse will care for your child and observe him or her closely for things such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. Your child may be attached to monitors, oxygen, and intravenous lines required to provide fluids and medications.

How long will my child stay in the PACU?

The length of time your child will stay in the PACU will depend on his or her type of surgery, anesthesia, and need for continued observation.

When your child is awake, comfortable and stable, he or she will be returned to the Day Care Unit or to his or her room.

Who can visit in the PACU?

For privacy and safety reasons, we are only able to accomodate one family member at a time per child.

If there is more than one family member accompanying your child, you may choose to take turns being in the PACU with your child.

You need to be free of illnesses such as cold or flu to come into the PACU.

Will my child have discomfort?

Depending on the type of surgery or procedure performed, some discomfort is expected.

Your child may receive medication to ease his or her discomfort.

How can I help my child?

We encourage you to be active in your child's care under the guidence of a nurse.

Some things that might be helpful to your child in the PACU include:

* emotional support
* reassuring words
* gentle touch
* holding or rocking (when permitted)

Things to remember...

The staff will assess your child, meet his or her immediate needs and set up monitoring. For this reason, there will be a delay between the time the child arrives in the PACU and when the staff bring a family member into the PACU. Please do not be alarmed. You will be reunited with your child as soon as possible.

Please wash your hands when you enter and when you leave.

Please do not bring any food or drink into the PACU.

Please respect the privacy and confidentiality of others.

Please understand that during medical emergencies, you may be assked to leave and wait outside the PACU.

Your child's nurse will be happy to answer your questions concerning your child's recovery and to make you feel as comfortable as possible during your visit.

Thank you for your cooperation. We look forward to working with you in the care of your child.