Construction of a nursing assessment framework for patients in anaesthesia recovery period: A modified Delphi study

AimTo construct a nursing assessment framework for patients in anaesthesia recovery period.DesignA three-round modified Delphi method was employed to capture the consensus of 22 panellists.MethodsThe initial items in the nursing assessment framework for patients in anaesthesia recovery period were developed based on the mini-clinical evaluation exercise (mini-CEX). A panel of 22 experts participated in this study. The panellists have more than 10 years of experience in either clinical anaesthesia, or post-anesthesia nursing, or operating room nursing, or surgical intensive nursing. Between March and April 2023, the panellists evaluated and recommended revisions to the initial framework.ResultsThis study resulted in the development of a nursing assessment framework for patients in anaesthesia recovery period. The initial version of the framework consisted of six dimensions with 27 items. Six items were modified after the first round of consultation. After the second round, five modifications and four deletions were made based on expert opinion. The third round resulted in a convergence of expert opinion. The framework, which consists of 24 items across five dimensions, was refined. The five dimensions are as follows: History-taking, Physical assessment, Clinical judgement, Organizational efficiency and Humanistic concern.ConclusionThe nursing assessment framework for patients in anaesthesia recovery period was reached consensus between the 22 experts' opinions.Implications for the profession and patient careThe assessment framework constructed in this study could be used for the process evaluation of post-anesthesia nursing. The framework may guide perianesthesia nurses in the timely and effective assessment of patients during this critical phase of care. It may be used for perianesthesia nursing education or to evaluate nurses' assessment skills.Reporting methodThe study is reported in accordance with the Guidance on Conducting and Reporting DElphi Studies (CREDES) recommendations.Patient or public contributionNo patient or public contribution.