Journal of perianesthesia nursing : official journal of the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses
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J. Perianesth. Nurs. · Jun 2002
ReviewResidual neuromuscular blockade in the immediate postoperative period.
Neuromuscular blocking agents are among the most potent and dangerous drugs administered in the course of a general anesthetic. Their residual actions can have profound effects on a patient's ability to adequately ventilate. Understanding the basics of their actions and the methods of monitoring the level of neuromuscular blockade will assist the PACU nurse in diagnosing the cause of postoperative muscle weakness and hypoventilation. This article will review the mechanisms of action and monitoring of neuromuscular blocking agents, as well as provide a basic overview of postoperative complications involving hypoventilation and motor weakness.
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Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains one of the most common complications related to surgery and anesthesia. Referred to as the "big little problem," PONV complications range from minor patient discomfort to gastric aspiration or death. ⋯ Because the causes of PONV are multifactorial, no single antiemetic medication has been 100% effective for its prevention. A thorough understanding of these factors and the pharmacology related to PONV is essential for the effective management of this common postoperative complication.