CPAN Emergency Response Procedures 2

Question 1

A PACU patient develops sudden onset of stridor and progressive hoarseness 20 minutes post-extubation. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Subglottic edema

Answer

Post-extubation subglottic edema (croup) presents with stridor and hoarseness and is caused by mucosal irritation from the endotracheal tube.

Question 2

During phase I PACU recovery, a patient's SpO2 drops to 84% despite 10 L/min O2 via non-rebreather mask. Which intervention has the highest priority?

Accepted Answer

Perform bag-mask ventilation

Answer

Bag-mask ventilation directly addresses inadequate oxygenation and ventilation when supplemental O2 alone is insufficient.

Question 3

A patient in the PACU is exhibiting masseter muscle rigidity, rising end-tidal CO2, and a temperature of 39.8°C (103.6°F). Which drug should be administered immediately?

Accepted Answer

Dantrolene 2.5 mg/kg IV

Answer

Dantrolene sodium is the specific antidote for malignant hyperthermia and must be given immediately upon clinical recognition.

Question 4

A post-cardiac surgery patient in the PACU has a blood pressure of 60/40 mmHg, distended neck veins, and muffled heart sounds. What is the most likely emergency?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac tamponade

Answer

Beck's triad (hypotension, distended neck veins, muffled heart sounds) is the classic presentation of cardiac tamponade.

Question 5

When managing a PACU patient in pulseless ventricular tachycardia, what is the correct energy setting for the first biphasic defibrillation attempt?

Accepted Answer

120–200 J

Answer

Current AHA guidelines recommend 120–200 J for the first biphasic defibrillation shock for pulseless VT/VF.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN Emergency Response Procedures 2