CAA Perioperative Care & Patient Monitoring 2

Question 1

Which combination of intraoperative findings is most characteristic of early malignant hyperthermia?

Accepted Answer

Rising ETCO2 and increasing core temperature

Answer

Malignant hyperthermia causes hypermetabolism leading to a rapid rise in ETCO2 (from excess CO2 production) and increasing core temperature, often before other signs appear.

Question 2

A train-of-four (TOF) ratio of 0.9 or greater at the adductor pollicis muscle indicates:

Accepted Answer

Adequate recovery of neuromuscular function for extubation

Answer

A TOF ratio ≥0.9 at the adductor pollicis is the accepted threshold indicating adequate neuromuscular recovery and is considered safe for extubation.

Question 3

The modified Aldrete scoring system is used in the PACU to assess:

Accepted Answer

Patient readiness for discharge from the PACU

Answer

The modified Aldrete score evaluates activity, respiration, circulation, consciousness, and oxygen saturation to determine when a patient is safe to leave the PACU.

Question 4

Which monitoring modality provides continuous beat-to-beat arterial blood pressure measurement and allows for repeated arterial blood gas sampling?

Accepted Answer

Radial arterial line (intra-arterial catheter)

Answer

An intra-arterial catheter (arterial line) provides continuous beat-to-beat blood pressure monitoring and convenient access for serial arterial blood gas analysis.

Question 5

Which immediate postoperative complication is most frequently encountered in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)

Answer

PONV is the most common postoperative complication, occurring in up to 30% of all surgical patients and up to 80% in high-risk patients, significantly impacting recovery.

(CAA) Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Practice Test

(CAA) Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Practice Test

CAA Perioperative Care & Patient Monitoring 2