What is the primary focus of care in the PACU?

The primary focus of care in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is to monitor and stabilize the patient's condition after surgery. This is crucial because patients are often transitioning from the effects of anesthesia and may still be vulnerable to complications during this critical period. In the PACU, healthcare professionals closely observe vital signs, manage pain, and assess for any potential issues such as respiratory distress or bleeding.

Ensuring patient comfort is undoubtedly an important aspect of care, but it is secondary to the immediate need for monitoring the patient's physiological status and addressing any complications that may arise postoperatively. Additionally, while preparing for rehabilitation and conducting assessments for long-term care are relevant in the continuum of care after surgery, they occur after the initial stabilization in the PACU. The priority remains on providing an environment where patients can safely recover from anesthesia and surgery, ensuring their immediate health and safety before progressing to other stages of care.