Table 2.

Criteria for Patients to be Discharged from the Post-Operative Recovery Room

•  The patient is fully conscious, responding to voice or light touch, able to maintain a clear airway and has a normal cough reflex

•  Respiration and oxygen saturation are satisfactory (10-20 breaths/minute and SpO2>92%)

•  The cardiovascular system is stable with no unexplained cardiac irregularity or persistent bleeding

•  The patient’s pulse and blood pressure should compare with normal pre-operative values or should be at a level corresponding to planned post-operative care

•  There should be adequate control of pain and vomiting with suitable analgesic and anti-emetic regimens prescribed

•  Temperature should be within acceptable limits (>36°C)

•  Oxygen and fluid therapy should be prescribed when required