What is the primary role of the PACU nurse during patient transfer from surgery?

The primary role of the PACU nurse during patient transfer from surgery is to monitor vital signs and assess the patient's condition. This responsibility is crucial because patients coming out of surgery require careful observation to ensure their stability as they recover from anesthesia and the effects of the surgical procedure. The PACU nurse assesses vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, as well as monitoring for any signs of complications, pain management, and response to medications. By focusing on these assessments, the nurse can quickly identify any potential issues and intervene as necessary to ensure the patient’s safety and well-being during this critical period.

Other options do not align with the immediate responsibilities of the PACU nurse. Discharging patients immediately is not appropriate until they are stable. Preparing meals is typically not within the scope of the PACU nurse's role, as recovery is usually prioritized over feeding. Scheduling follow-up appointments is generally handled by administrative staff and occurs after the patient is stable and ready to leave the recovery environment. Thus, the emphasis on monitoring and assessment directly underscores the PACU nurse's critical role in patient safety and recovery.