CPAN Respiratory and Airway Management Flashcards

A post-anesthesia patient in the PACU has an SpO2 of 88% on room air. What is the nurse's first intervention?

Answer: Apply supplemental oxygen and stimulate the patient to breathe deeply

The first response to low SpO2 is applying supplemental oxygen and stimulating the patient to take deep breaths, as residual anesthesia frequently causes hypoventilation.

Which assessment finding most suggests upper airway obstruction in a PACU patient?

Answer: Inspiratory stridor with paradoxical chest and abdominal movement

Inspiratory stridor and paradoxical chest-abdominal movement (chest falls while abdomen rises on inspiration) are classic signs of upper airway obstruction.

A patient emerges from general anesthesia with significant laryngospasm. What is the most appropriate initial intervention?

Answer: Apply firm upward jaw thrust and administer 100% oxygen via positive pressure ventilation

Jaw thrust and 100% oxygen with positive-pressure ventilation are the initial treatment for laryngospasm, which is involuntary spasm of the vocal cords.

Which factor most increases a PACU patient's risk for post-extubation respiratory complications?

Answer: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of post-extubation airway collapse and respiratory depression, especially with residual opioids and sedatives.

What is the recommended position for a PACU patient at risk for aspiration?

Answer: Semi-prone or lateral decubitus position

Lateral decubitus or semi-prone positioning helps protect the airway from aspiration by allowing secretions and vomitus to drain away from the glottis.

When should the PACU nurse most urgently prepare for reintubation?

Answer: Patient develops progressive stridor unresponsive to jaw thrust and supplemental oxygen

Progressive stridor unresponsive to initial airway maneuvers signals impending complete airway obstruction and requires immediate preparation for reintubation.