Post-Operative / Emergence

- Low lung volume ventilation (6mL/kg) can decrease mortality in critically ill patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome.35 Even in patients who have not developed the acute respiratory distress syndrome; initiation of low lung volume ventilation can improve outcome. Consider initiation of low lung volume ventilation in the OR.
- Communication with the next role of care is vital to maintaining continuity of care. In the deployed setting this may entail a face-to-face conversation with the intensive care unit team, or a report transmitted to a critical care air transport team. (See Interfacility Transport of Patients between Theater Medical Treatment Facilities CPG) A detailed written report/anesthetic record documents the operative resuscitation and facilitates transition to the next role of care. Being immediately available in the post-operative period to answer any questions can clarify any issues that may arise.