Arrhythmias in the PACU. A review.

The patient emerging from anesthesia has been subjected to a myriad of predisposing causes of dysrhythmias. Adequate pain control; relief of anxiety; maintenance of proper ventilation and oxygenation; prompt treatment of hypothermia; accurate assessment of vital signs, electrolytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit; observation for signs of hemorrhage; and continuous cardiac monitoring should be afforded every PACU patient. When dysrhythmias occur, prompt recognition, evaluation of possible causes, and appropriate interventions should be instituted.