How do perioperative nurses provide patient care?

Perioperative nurses provide patient care within the framework of the nursing process, which encompasses assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This comprehensive approach allows nurses to deliver individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

During the perioperative phase, nurses assess the patient's physical and emotional status, identify potential risks and complications, and collaborate with the surgical team to create a tailored plan of care. By utilizing the nursing process, they ensure that the patient is not just receiving treatment based on medical orders but is being cared for holistically. This process encourages critical thinking and emphasizes the nurse's role as a patient advocate, helping to ensure safe and effective outcomes in the perioperative setting.

In contrast, relying only on physician orders may limit the nurse's role in patient care. While physician orders are important, they do not encompass the full spectrum of care that patients require. Additionally, while assistants can play a role in supporting care delivery, the primary responsibility lies with the nurses who are trained to assess and manage patient needs. Following hospital protocols is also important for quality and safety, but protocols are implemented within the nursing process to ensure patient-centric care. Therefore, focusing on the nursing process empowers perioperative nurses to provide comprehensive and effective care.