Practice Test Geeks(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test
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Phases of Perianesthesia Care and Discharge Criteria Flashcards

7 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 7 Phases of Perianesthesia Care and Discharge Criteria flashcards as text

  1. Which parameter is NOT one of the five components of the Modified Aldrete score?

    Answer: Pain intensity

    The Modified Aldrete score assesses activity, respiration, circulation, consciousness, and oxygen saturation; pain is not scored.

  2. Many facilities require what minimum Modified Aldrete score before a patient is discharged from Phase I?

    Answer: 9 or greater

    A score of 9 or greater out of 10 is the commonly used threshold for Phase I discharge.

  3. Which criterion is included in the Post-Anesthetic Discharge Scoring System (PADSS) but NOT in the Modified Aldrete score?

    Answer: Surgical bleeding

    PADSS evaluates vital signs, activity, pain/PONV, surgical bleeding, and intake/output, making it suited to home-readiness decisions.

  4. Per ASPAN staffing recommendations, an unconscious 6-year-old with a stable airway in Phase I requires which nurse-to-patient ratio?

    Answer: 1:1

    ASPAN recommends 1:1 care for an unconscious patient 8 years of age or under.

  5. What is the standard ASPAN-recommended nurse-to-patient ratio in Phase II for stable patients over 5 years of age?

    Answer: 1:3

    ASPAN recommends one nurse to three patients in Phase II for stable patients over age 5.

  6. A patient meets all Phase II discharge criteria but has no responsible adult available to escort them home. What is the most appropriate disposition?

    Answer: Transfer to Extended Care for continued observation

    Extended Care provides ongoing observation for patients who cannot be safely discharged, such as those lacking an escort.

  7. On a patient's arrival to the Phase I PACU, what should the nurse do FIRST?

    Answer: Assess airway patency and respiratory status

    Airway and breathing are assessed immediately on arrival before the detailed handoff report.

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