Related Experiment Videos
Working alone: can it be done?
1Samaritan College of Nursing, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ 85017, USA.
Summary
The American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (ASPAN) recommends two nurses in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) during phase I recovery. This article offers strategies for nurses working alone in the PACU to ensure patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Patient Safety
- Post-Anesthesia Care
Background:
- The American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (ASPAN) Standards of PeriAnesthesia Nursing Practice (1995) mandate a minimum of two nurses in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) during phase I recovery.
- A position paper supporting two nurses in the PACU during phase I recovery was passed at the 1995 American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses midyear meeting.
- Despite recommendations, nurses occasionally work alone in the PACU nationwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the practice of nurses working alone in the PACU.
- To provide strategies for safe and competent patient care in the PACU when staffing is reduced to one nurse.
Main Methods:
- This article is a discussion and strategy-based paper.
- It synthesizes current standards and addresses practical challenges in PACU staffing.
Main Results:
- Current standards recommend a minimum of two nurses for phase I PACU recovery.
- Nurses sometimes work alone in the PACU, necessitating alternative safety strategies.
Conclusions:
- Safe and competent care can be provided even when working alone in the PACU.
- Implementing specific strategies is crucial for maintaining patient safety in reduced-staffing situations.