This field focuses on the specialized care provided by registered nurses to patients with acute or chronic respiratory conditions undergoing surgical interventions. These nurses possess advanced knowledge and skills in respiratory assessment, management of airways, mechanical ventilation, and post-operative pulmonary care. An example scenario includes a nurse managing the respiratory needs of a patient following lung surgery, ensuring adequate oxygenation and preventing complications like pneumonia or atelectasis.
The significance of this specialized nursing care lies in its contribution to improved patient outcomes, reduced complications, and shorter recovery times. Historically, advancements in surgical techniques and respiratory therapies have driven the need for specialized nursing expertise in this area. This specialized role has become increasingly crucial as the prevalence of respiratory diseases and the complexity of surgical procedures continue to rise. Effective management of respiratory issues in surgical patients requires a deep understanding of both surgical and respiratory pathophysiology, pharmacology, and critical care principles.
