what is pacu in a hospital

In a hospital, PACU stands for Post Anesthesia Care Unit. It is a critical care unit where patients are temporarily admitted after surgical procedures. In the PACU, patients vital signs are closely observed, pain management begins, and fluids are given. The nursing staff is skilled in recognizing and managing problems in patients after receiving anesthesia. The length of stay in the PACU depends on factors such as the type of surgery, the patients response to surgery and anesthesia, and medical history. Patients are closely monitored until they are stable and ready to be discharged from the PACU. Pain medication is initiated in the PACU, and the patients pain control regimen may take the form of pills, injections, or patient-controlled analgesia. The decision to remain in the PACU is made by the anesthesiologist, surgeon, and medical doctor based on the patients recovery and medical condition. Visitation in the PACU is limited to avoid the risk of infection to other patients and to permit the staff to concentrate on the care of post-surgical patients.