CAPA Perianesthesia Complications & Emergency Response 3

Question 1

Which patient populations are at HIGHEST risk for emergence delirium in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Elderly patients and young children

Answer

Elderly patients and young children are at highest risk for emergence delirium due to age-related CNS vulnerability and reduced ability to process and recover from anesthetic effects.

Question 2

A PACU patient develops sudden dyspnea, tachycardia, and unexplained hypoxia following a prolonged orthopedic procedure. The nurse should FIRST suspect:

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary embolism

Answer

Sudden onset dyspnea, tachycardia, and hypoxia in the postoperative period — especially after prolonged immobility — are classic signs of pulmonary embolism.

Question 3

Which intervention is MOST appropriate as a FIRST response to emergence agitation in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Reorient the patient, reduce stimuli, dim lights, and ensure safety

Answer

Non-pharmacological interventions — reorientation, reducing environmental stimuli, and ensuring patient safety — are the first-line approach before pharmacological sedation is considered.

Question 4

What is the MOST common cause of delayed emergence (failure to awaken) in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Residual effects of anesthetic agents and opioids

Answer

Residual anesthetic and opioid effects are by far the most common cause of delayed emergence, as pharmacokinetic variability can prolong their CNS depressant effects.

Question 5

A patient in the PACU develops acute pulmonary edema with pink frothy secretions and SpO2 of 78%. What is the IMMEDIATE nursing action?

Accepted Answer

Sit the patient upright, apply high-flow oxygen, and call the anesthesia provider

Answer

Upright positioning reduces preload and improves diaphragm excursion; high-flow oxygen corrects hypoxia — both are immediate nursing actions while the provider is notified.

(CAPA) Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CAPA) Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CAPA Perianesthesia Complications & Emergency Response 3