What is the primary goal during the postoperative phase?

The primary goal during the postoperative phase is to assess and stabilize the patient’s condition. This phase is critical as patients emerge from anesthesia and begin recovering from surgery. It involves close monitoring of vital signs, pain levels, and any complications that may arise as a result of the surgical procedure. Nurses will conduct thorough assessments to detect any issues early and initiate appropriate interventions.

Stabilizing the patient's condition ensures that they are safe and can progress in their recovery without serious complications. While comfort and infection prevention are important aspects of postoperative care, they fall under the broader goal of stabilizing the patient. Discharge preparation and rehabilitation are secondary to the immediate need for stabilization, which is essential before any further steps can be contemplated.