TABLE 2
Elements of the Intraoperative to
Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Hand-Off Communication
Situation
Name of patient and date of birth
Name of operative or invasive procedure performed including modifiers and site
Background
Type of anesthesia administered and name of anesthesia care provider
Intraoperative medications administered including dose and time
IV fluids administered
Estimated blood loss
Pertinent information related to the surgical site such as dressings, tubes, drains, or packing
Any significant OR events
Assessment
Hemodynamic stability
Airway and oxygenation status
Thermal status (eg, presence of hypothermia or hyperthermia)
Urine output
Presence or absence of surgical complications
Level of pain
Method of pain management
Recommendations
Ensure that immediate postoperative orders have been completed
Discharge from the PACU when stable
Allow opportunity for intraoperative and
PACU staff members to ask questions or voice concerns