The PACU stands for Post Anesthesia Care Unit, which is a unit where patients are temporarily admitted after any surgical procedures. It is a critical care unit where the patients vital signs are closely observed, pain management begins, and fluids are given. The PACU is staffed by a team of nurses, anesthesiologists, and support services who are specifically trained to deal with the unique needs of the post-surgical patient. The length of stay in the PACU depends on several factors, including the type of anesthesia received, the patients response to surgery and anesthesia, and medical history. The following are consistently monitored by medical professionals while the patient remains in the PACU:
- Vital signs (Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, Temperature, and Respiratory Rate)
- Electrocardiogram
- Saturation of Oxygen (SpO2)
- Airway Patency
- Mental Status
- Neuromuscular Function
- Postoperative pain
- Surgical sites for excessive bleeding, mucopurulent discharge, swelling, hematomas, wound healing, and infection
The PACU staff monitor that the Respiratory Rate and Saturation of Oxygen remain as close to baseline of that patient while the heart rate and blood pressure remain within 20% of their baseline values. Pain medicine will be initiated in the PACU, and the patients pain control regimen may take the form of pills, injections, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), sometimes called a "pain pump". The PACU is a secure department, and visitors will be given directions about entering the PACU by greeters in the Surgical Family Lounge.
