Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Monitoring
How Hospitals Ensure Safe Recovery After Surgery
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital, Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
General, Laparoscopic, Laser & Daycare Surgery Specialist
What Is the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)?
The Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is a dedicated recovery area where patients are closely monitored immediately after surgery and anesthesia.
This phase is as critical as the surgery itself.
Why PACU Monitoring Is Crucial
After anesthesia, patients may experience:
✔ Breathing difficulty
✔ Blood pressure fluctuations
✔ Pain or nausea
✔ Delayed awakening
PACU monitoring prevents life-threatening complications.
When Does PACU Care Begin?
PACU care starts:
🕒 Immediately after surgery
🕒 Before shifting to ward / ICU / discharge
Every patient passes through PACU—even after minor surgery.
Key Parameters Monitored in PACU
✔ Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
✔ Heart rate & ECG
✔ Blood pressure
✔ Respiratory rate
✔ Level of consciousness
✔ Pain score
✔ Urine output (if required)
Continuous monitoring ensures early detection of danger signs.
Role of Anesthetist in PACU
The anesthetist:
✔ Assesses airway safety
✔ Manages pain control
✔ Treats nausea & vomiting
✔ Decides fitness for discharge or ward transfer
No patient leaves PACU without anesthetist clearance.
Role of PACU Nursing Staff
PACU nurses:
✔ Monitor vitals every 5–15 minutes
✔ Observe surgical site & drains
✔ Maintain IV lines
✔ Provide emotional reassurance
They are specially trained for post-anesthesia care.
Common Complications Prevented in PACU
❌ Airway obstruction
❌ Respiratory depression
❌ Sudden drop in BP
❌ Excessive bleeding
❌ Severe pain or vomiting
Early management saves lives.
PACU vs ICU – What’s the Difference?
| PACU | ICU |
|---|---|
| Short-term recovery | Long-term critical care |
| All surgical patients | High-risk patients |
| Temporary monitoring | Advanced life support |
Some patients move from PACU to ICU if required.
PACU Care in Daycare Surgeries
Even for daycare surgery:
✔ Full PACU observation
✔ Minimum recovery time
✔ Stable vitals mandatory
✔ Discharge checklist followed
No shortcuts in patient safety.
Discharge Criteria from PACU
Patients are shifted only if:
✔ Awake & oriented
✔ Stable vitals
✔ Pain controlled
✔ No active bleeding
✔ Able to breathe independently
This prevents post-op emergencies.
Importance of PACU in Elderly & High-Risk Patients
Elderly, diabetic, cardiac patients need:
✔ Longer monitoring
✔ Strict vitals control
✔ Careful pain management
PACU reduces postoperative mortality.
How Aayush Multispeciality Hospital Ensures PACU Safety
✔ Dedicated PACU area
✔ Modern monitors
✔ Trained anesthesia team
✔ Emergency drugs & equipment
✔ Strict protocols
Safety continues even after surgery ends.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
✔ Complete surgical responsibility
✔ End-to-end patient care
✔ Emphasis on recovery safety
✔ Ethical medical practice
Because recovery matters as much as surgery.
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa Building, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
