How to Care for Patients After Orthopedic Spinal Anesthesia

Postoperative nursing care after spinal anesthesia:

1. Monitor vital signs: After spinal anesthesia, patients may experience a drop in blood pressure, changes in heart rate, and other reactions. Therefore, continuous monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation should be conducted postoperatively to ensure stable vital signs.

2. Prevent hypotension: Spinal anesthesia may cause hypotension. Nurses should administer intravenous fluids or vasopressor medications as prescribed to maintain blood pressure within the normal range.

3. Monitor neurological function: Spinal anesthesia may temporarily affect sensation and motor function in the lower limbs. Postoperatively, regular assessments should be performed to evaluate the recovery of neurological function, including dorsalis pedis artery pulse, sensation, and muscle strength, to promptly identify and manage any abnormalities.

4. Monitor urinary function: Temporary urinary retention may occur after spinal anesthesia. Encourage the patient to void independently; if necessary, catheterization may be performed to prevent excessive bladder distension.

5. Encourage activity: Patients should be encouraged to perform early in-bed activities, such as ankle pump exercises, to promote circulation and prevent deep vein thrombosis. Once the anesthetic effect has completely worn off, activity levels can be gradually increased to facilitate recovery.