Gastroenterology and Thoracic Surgery
Royal Brisbane and Woman's Hospital
Brisbane , QLD
07.2024 - 07.2024
- Conduct and document routine observations (vital signs, bowel charts, fluid balance).
- Assist with management of patients with GI disorders (e.g., IBD, liver disease, pancreatitis).
- Monitor and assist with nasogastric (NG) tubes, PEG feeds, and stoma care under supervision.
- Perform basic wound care, especially for abdominal surgeries or drain sites.
- Monitor nutritional intake and assist with nutritional support plans.
- Provide education and support on bowel health, stoma care, and dietary needs.
- Escalate concerns such as GI bleeding, abdominal pain, or signs of deterioration promptly.
- Maintain infection prevention standards, especially for infectious gastroenteritis cases.
- Monitor respiratory status closely (SpO2, RR, work of breathing, pain with breathing).
- Observe and assist with management of chest drains, including drainage volume and tidaling.
- Support early mobilisation to prevent post-op respiratory complications.
- Provide pain assessment and management, particularly for post-thoracotomy pain.
- Monitor for complications such as pneumothorax, haemothorax, or infection.
- Collaborate with physiotherapists, respiratory nurses, and the surgical team.
- Assist with wound care and drain site management
- Educate and support patients and families pre- and post-surgery regarding recovery and discharge.