Modifications to the postanesthesia score for use in ambulatory surgery

J Perianesth Nurs. 1998 Jun;13(3):148-55. doi: 10.1016/s1089-9472(98)80044-0.

Abstract

The Aldrete Score has withstood the changes in anesthesia and surgical care that have developed in the past three decades. Nevertheless, it is imperative that (1) a modification is made to incorporate the most effective monitor of the respiratory and hemodynamic functions, e.g., pulse oximetry; and (2) the five indices previously used be expanded by incorporating five more indices including dressing, pain, ambulation, fasting/feeding, and urine output to evaluate patients undergoing ambulatory surgery and anesthesia. A patient's recovery from anesthesia and surgery, using 10 indices graded 0, 1, or 2, would provide criteria for street fitness and discharge to home when the patient reaches a postanesthesia recovery score of 18 or higher.

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Surgical Procedures / nursing*
  • Anesthesia Recovery Period*
  • Humans
  • Neurologic Examination / methods*
  • Nursing Assessment / methods*
  • Nursing Records
  • Patient Discharge
  • Postanesthesia Nursing / methods*
  • Reproducibility of Results