craniotomy
A craniotomy is a surgical incision into the cranium to remove the brain tumors; it is mostly performed emergent neurosurgical procedures. The procedure presents a safety challenge of removing the tumor without damaging the normal brain tissues. Besides, there are possible postop complications that can lead to neurological deficits. Therefore, it is significant for a nurse in the neurology unit to be familiar with post craniotomy complications in patients to avoid delay in life-saving treatment (Chughtai, Nemer, Kessler & Bhatt, 2019). Some of the most encountered post-craniotomy complications include increased intracranial pressure (ICP), hematomas, hypovolemic shock, hydrocephalus, respiratory complications, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. In addition, late complications can occur, and they include meningitis, wound infection, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, seizure, cerebral edema, and cerebrospinal fluid leak (Ignatavicius, Workman, Rebar & Heimgartner, 2018). For post-craniotomy safe care, the nurse should monitor health vitals such as temperature, blood pressure, osmolarity, serum electrolyte levels, blood oxygen levels, weight change, fluid balance (Ignatavicius, Workman, Rebar & Heimgartner, 2018). Additionally, patient assessment for weaknesses wound site color, and history of hemorrhage risk factors such as metabolic syndromes including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases (Chughtai, Nemer, Kessler & Bhatt, 2019). Timely detection and control of these signs can help control complications in postoperative craniotomy care.
Reference
Chughtai, K. A., Nemer, O. P., Kessler, A. T., & Bhatt, A. A. (2019). Postoperative complications of craniotomy and craniectomy. Emergency Radiology, 26(1), 99-107. doi:http://dx.doi.org.library.capella.edu/10.1007/s10140-018-1647-2
Ignatavicius, D. D.,Workman, M. L., Rebar, C. R., & Heimgartner, N. M. (2018). Medical-surgical
nursing: Concepts for interprofessional collaborative care.