How to transfer a postoperative patient to the intensive care unit. Strategies for documentation, evaluation, and management.

Postoperative intensive care is often required for patients who have underlying cardiac or respiratory dysfunction, who undergo major surgery, or who experience major perioperative complications. The initial report should list the patient's intravenous lines, catheters, and surgical drains or tubes, as well as whether ventilation is needed; this allows the intensive care unit (ICU) staff to set up appropriate equipment. On the patient's arrival in the ICU, document the medical history, anesthetics given, surgery performed, and intraoperative events. Perform an organ system review with ongoing assessment at 15-minute intervals. Residual effects of anesthetic agents can include respiratory depression, hypotension, and bradycardia.