CPAN CPAN Respiratory and Airway Management

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Apply supplemental oxygen and stimulate the patient to breathe deeply

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Inspiratory stridor with paradoxical chest and abdominal movement

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Semi-prone or lateral decubitus position

Answer

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

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN CPAN Respiratory and Airway Management