After day surgery, a patient is awake and reports low pain. What is the appropriate level of care for this patient once they have received discharge instructions?

The appropriate level of care for a patient who is awake and reporting low pain after day surgery, following the provision of discharge instructions, is Phase 2. In this phase, the patient is typically stable, has regained adequate consciousness, and is able to participate in their own care. They are assessed for mobility, pain levels, and readiness for discharge, which aligns with the patient's reported condition of low pain and the completion of discharge instructions.

Phase 2 is often referred to as a "step-down" phase, where patients continue to be monitored but are closer to being discharged home. It allows healthcare providers to ensure the patient can recover safely outside the immediate post-anesthesia environment. The focus is now on ensuring that the patient is comfortable, understands their post-operative instructions, and is prepared for safe discharge with follow-up care if necessary.

This contrasts with the other phases. Phase 1 involves more intensive monitoring and care immediately after anesthesia, while Phase 3 typically refers to a recovery phase that happens after a patient has been discharged home, which does not apply in this scenario. Home care would not be applicable until the patient has completed their assessment in the PACU. Thus, Phase 2 is the most appropriate level of care in this situation.