CAPA Phase I & Phase II Recovery Care 4

Question 1

A patient in Phase I PACU develops sudden onset atrial fibrillation with a ventricular rate of 140 bpm and a blood pressure of 88/54 mmHg. The priority intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Synchronized cardioversion after notifying the anesthesiologist/cardiologist

Answer

Hemodynamically unstable atrial fibrillation with hypotension requires immediate synchronized cardioversion per ACLS guidelines.

Question 2

Which position is CONTRAINDICATED for a patient in Phase I PACU who is still sedated and has not yet regained protective airway reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Supine flat position

Answer

A fully supine flat position increases aspiration risk in a sedated patient without protective airway reflexes; lateral or semi-prone positioning protects the airway.

Question 3

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is triggered by which of the following agents used in the perioperative setting?

Accepted Answer

Succinylcholine and volatile inhalation agents such as sevoflurane

Answer

MH is triggered by succinylcholine and all volatile halogenated anesthetic agents; propofol is a safe alternative for MH-susceptible patients.

Question 4

A patient recovering in Phase I PACU after laparoscopic cholecystectomy develops right shoulder pain. The nurse understands this is most likely caused by:

Accepted Answer

Referred pain from residual diaphragmatic irritation due to CO2 insufflation

Answer

Residual CO2 from laparoscopic insufflation irritates the diaphragm, causing referred phrenic nerve pain perceived in the ipsilateral shoulder.

Question 5

When assessing a patient's readiness to transfer from Phase I to Phase II PACU, which criterion is MOST important to verify first?

Accepted Answer

The patient's airway is patent and ventilation is adequate with a stable SpO2

Answer

Airway patency and adequate ventilation are the most critical safety parameters before any PACU phase transition.

(CAPA) Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CAPA) Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CAPA Phase I & Phase II Recovery Care 4