CPAN Post-Operative Complications and Interventions Flashcards
6 cards from real CPAN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CPAN Post-Operative Complications and Interventions flashcards as text
Why is post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) a significant concern in the PACU?
Answer: It can cause aspiration, wound dehiscence, increased intracranial pressure, and significant patient distress
PONV is a common post-operative complication that can lead to aspiration, wound dehiscence, elevated intracranial pressure, and significant patient discomfort.
Which medication is commonly used as first-line pharmacologic treatment for PONV in the PACU?
Answer: Ondansetron (Zofran)
Ondansetron is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist commonly used as first-line antiemetic therapy for PONV management in the PACU.
What is the underlying cause of post-operative shivering and how should a PACU nurse manage it?
Answer: A thermoregulatory response to hypothermia managed with warming blankets and warm IV fluids
Post-operative shivering is most often caused by hypothermia acquired during surgery and is managed with active warming measures including warm blankets and warmed IV fluids.
What is emergence delirium (emergence agitation) in the PACU?
Answer: An acute state of confusion, agitation, and disorientation occurring upon emergence from anesthesia
Emergence delirium is an acute neurological complication characterized by confusion, agitation, and disorientation that can occur during recovery from anesthesia.
How should a PACU nurse objectively assess for post-operative hypothermia?
Answer: Monitor core temperature with a reliable thermometer and assess for shivering and vital sign changes
Post-operative hypothermia assessment requires objective core temperature measurement in conjunction with clinical signs such as shivering, pallor, and hemodynamic changes.
What is post-operative urinary retention (POUR) and what are its key risk factors?
Answer: Inability to void despite a full bladder, with risk factors including surgery type, older age, and opioid use
POUR is the inability to void despite a full bladder and is associated with certain surgery types, advanced age, male gender, and opioid use.
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