The early postoperative period is of increasing importance in modern operative medicine with a continuously increasing surgical spectrum and patients with increasingly complex comorbidities. Even with optimal preoperative evaluation and intraoperative care, postoperative complications are not uncommon. The fastest possible diagnosis, including possible differential diagnoses and any combined disorders, is essential in order to initiate the indicated therapeutic measures. The spatial correlate of the postoperative phase is the post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU). The qualification of the medical staff and spatial structure must meet the recommended minimum and must be in line with the existing operational structures. Good interdisciplinary and interprofessional communication reduces the loss of information and a good error reporting culture helps to reduce critical incidents.
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