CPAN Clinical Procedures and Protocols 3

Question 1

A patient is admitted to the PACU following a thoracotomy with a chest tube to water-seal drainage. The nurse observes continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber. This finding indicates:

Accepted Answer

An air leak that requires immediate notification of the surgeon

Answer

Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates an ongoing air leak from the pleural space or at the chest tube insertion site, which requires surgical notification.

Question 2

Which pharmacologic agent is the drug of choice for treating bronchospasm in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Albuterol via nebulizer or MDI

Answer

Albuterol, a short-acting beta-2 agonist delivered via nebulizer or MDI, is the first-line pharmacologic treatment for bronchospasm due to its rapid onset and bronchodilatory effect.

Question 3

A PACU patient reports a pain score of 8/10 and has received maximum opioid doses per protocol. Which non-pharmacologic adjunct is MOST appropriate at this time?

Accepted Answer

Distraction and deep breathing exercises

Answer

Non-pharmacologic techniques such as distraction and guided deep breathing can reduce pain perception and anxiety when pharmacologic limits have been reached.

Question 4

During PACU assessment, a patient demonstrates confusion, hypertension, tachycardia, and diaphoresis after receiving meperidine. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin syndrome

Answer

Meperidine can cause serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic medications; presenting symptoms include altered mental status, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular abnormalities.

Question 5

When assessing an epidural catheter in the PACU, the nurse notes the patient has no sensation or motor function below T4. The nurse's priority intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Stop the epidural infusion and notify the anesthesia provider

Answer

A high spinal or epidural block above T4 can compromise respiratory function and hemodynamic stability, requiring immediate cessation of the infusion and anesthesia notification.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN Clinical Procedures and Protocols 3