What is a common concern that perioperative nurses must communicate about during discharge?

One of the primary responsibilities of perioperative nurses during the discharge process is to ensure that the patient and their caregivers understand the important information needed for ongoing recovery. In this context, communicating about follow-up appointments and signs of complications is crucial. This involves providing clear instructions on when the patient should return for follow-up care and educating them about potential signs and symptoms that may indicate complications after surgery.

This information helps patients recognize what is normal during their recovery and when they should seek medical attention, ultimately improving patient outcomes and ensuring a smoother recovery process. Effective communication in this area empowers patients to take an active role in their recovery and health management.

While insurance details, dietary restrictions, and previous medical history are important, they are not the immediate priorities for discharge communication in the perioperative setting, where post-operative care and potential complications hold significant importance.