CAPA CAPA Cardiovascular Assessment & Management 3

Question 1

In a CAPA setting, which ECG change is MOST concerning for hypokalemia?

Accepted Answer

Flattened T waves and U waves

Answer

Hypokalemia characteristically produces flattened T waves, prominent U waves, and can predispose to dangerous arrhythmias.

Question 2

Which postoperative assessment finding best indicates adequate cardiac output?

Accepted Answer

Urine output ≥0.5 mL/kg/hr

Answer

Adequate urine output of ≥0.5 mL/kg/hr is a reliable indicator of sufficient renal perfusion and cardiac output.

Question 3

A patient's capillary refill time is 4 seconds in the PACU. This finding indicates:

Accepted Answer

Impaired peripheral perfusion

Answer

Normal capillary refill is <2 seconds; a 4-second refill indicates impaired peripheral perfusion and possible circulatory compromise.

Question 4

The CAPA nurse suspects a patient has cardiac tamponade. Which triad of findings supports this suspicion?

Accepted Answer

Hypotension, muffled heart sounds, jugular venous distension

Answer

Beck's triad — hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and JVD — are the hallmark signs of cardiac tamponade.

Question 5

Which intervention should the CAPA nurse prioritize for a patient with new-onset PVCs in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Assess and correct underlying causes such as hypoxia or electrolyte imbalance

Answer

PVCs are often triggered by hypoxia, hypokalemia, or pain, so identifying and treating the underlying cause is the priority.

(CAPA) Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Practice Test