During the preoperative phase, which phase of the nursing process does the perioperative nurse practice?

• A. Implementation
• B. Assessment
• C. Evaluation
• D. Documentation

Answer: (B)

During the preoperative phase, the perioperative nurse primarily engages in the assessment phase of the nursing process. This phase involves gathering comprehensive data about the patient’s medical history, physical condition, and psychosocial factors that may influence the surgical experience. The objective is to identify any potential risks or complications that may arise during or after the surgery, as well as to ensure that the patient is adequately prepared for the procedure.

Assessment encompasses a variety of activities, including performing a physical examination, reviewing laboratory and imaging results, and determining the patient's understanding of the surgical procedure and consent process. This information is crucial for planning patient-centered interventions and facilitating effective perioperative care.

While other phases of the nursing process, such as implementation, evaluation, and documentation, are also important, they typically come into play at different stages of patient care. During preoperative care, the focus on assessment ensures that the nurse can create a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual patient's needs.