Question

Perioperative Case Study: Print out and bring to class

The patient is a 35 year old female who teaches third grade. She has a history of rheumatoid arthritis and is admitted for right knee surgery with the use of spinal anesthesia.

Subjective & objective data:

-Married, no children

-Is concerned about mobility and getting back to work because she is on her feet most of the day during work hours

-Health history: Diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis

Hypertension; controlled on medication

                        Mild obesity

-LMP: ended 10 days ago

-Allergies: Codeine

-Pain on right knee is 8 out 10

-Takes aspirin every day

Critical Thinking questions:

1.         What factors in the patient’s background may influence emotional and       physical reactions to this surgery?

2.         Which aspects of informed consent should be discussed in order for the patient to be fully informed?

Answer 1

Q.1]

Following factors in the patients background may influence emotional and physical reactions to this surgery are

1. Age
2. Gender
3. Culture
4. Ethnicity
5. Socio-economic status
6. Emotional response
7. Support systems
8. Life before pain onset
9. Health history
10. Response of family

Q.2]

An informed consent gives based upon a clear appreciation and understanding of the facts, implications, and consequences of an action.

Informed consent ensures the patient is fully aware of the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. It also includes the explanation about the procedure to the patient. A description of any reasonably foreseeable risks or discomforts to the surgery

Involving more than minimal risk, an explanation as to whether any compensation and/or medical treatments are available if injury occurs and, if so, what they consist of, or where further information may be obtained.