Service Dogs in the Perioperative Setting

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Disability Law
• Animal-Assisted Interventions

Background:

• Service dogs are vital for the independence and societal navigation of individuals with disabilities.
• Perioperative nurses require specialized knowledge regarding service animals and relevant legislation.
• Patient-centered care necessitates understanding the needs of patients accompanied by service dogs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform perioperative nurses about Americans With Disabilities Act regulations concerning service dogs.
• To provide recommendations for the perioperative care of patients with service dogs.
• To offer policy directives for ensuring safe and high-quality care for patients using service dogs.

Main Methods:

• Review of Americans With Disabilities Act regulations.
• Development of perioperative care recommendations.
• Formulation of policy directives.

Main Results:

• The Americans With Disabilities Act outlines specific rights and regulations for service dogs.
• Tailored care protocols can enhance the perioperative experience for patients with service dogs.
• Policy changes can support the integration of service dogs in healthcare settings.

Conclusions:

• Perioperative nurses must be knowledgeable about disability laws and service dog accommodations.
• Implementing specific care guidelines and policies is essential for inclusive perioperative practice.
• Ensuring patient safety and quality care involves recognizing the role of service dogs.