Sample interview questions: How do you handle patients who require intraoperative blood loss management?
Sample answer:
1. Preoperative Assessment:
– Review patient’s medical history, including bleeding disorders, recent medications, and transfusion history.
– Assess patient’s vital signs, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and coagulation studies.
– Identify potential risk factors for excessive blood loss, such as anemia, coagulopathies, and antiplatelet therapy.
2. Establishing Two Large Gauge Intravenous (IV) Lines:
– Before surgery, establish at least two large-gauge IV lines (18-gauge or larger) to ensure adequate vascular access for fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion.
3. Monitoring Blood Loss:
– Use a calibrated suction canister to accurately measure blood loss during surgery.
– Observe the surgical field for active bleeding and promptly notify the surgeon of any excessive blood loss.
– Monitor vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, for signs of hemodynamic instability.
4. Fluid Resuscitation:
– Administer crystalloid solutions (e.g., 0.9% normal saline or lactated Ringer’s) to maintain euvolemia and prevent hypovolemia.
– Monitor fluid balance closely to avoid fluid overload, especially in patients with cardiac or pulmonary conditions.
5. Blood Transfusion:
– Order blood products (e.g., packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, platelets) as needed based on the patient’s blood loss and laboratory values.
– Administer blood transfusions according to institutional pr… Read full answer
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