CPAN Patient Assessment and Evaluation 2

Question 1

A post-anesthesia patient has a respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min and SpO2 of 88% on room air. After applying 6L/min oxygen via face mask, SpO2 rises to 94%. What is the most likely cause of initial hypoxemia?

Accepted Answer

Hypoventilation from residual opioid effect

Answer

A slow respiratory rate with improvement on supplemental oxygen suggests opioid-induced hypoventilation, the most common cause of post-anesthesia hypoxemia.

Question 2

When assessing a post-anesthesia patient using the Aldrete scoring system, which parameter evaluates the patient's ability to follow commands?

Accepted Answer

Consciousness

Answer

The Consciousness parameter of the Aldrete score evaluates the patient's level of awareness and ability to respond to commands.

Question 3

A PACU patient who received spinal anesthesia complains of inability to move her legs 2 hours post-procedure. Which assessment finding would be most concerning?

Accepted Answer

Asymmetric motor block with increasing leg pain

Answer

Asymmetric motor block with increasing pain may indicate spinal hematoma or abscess, which are neurological emergencies requiring immediate evaluation.

Question 4

During post-anesthesia assessment, a patient's blood pressure drops from 130/80 to 85/50 mmHg after repositioning to supine. The most appropriate initial nursing action is:

Accepted Answer

Increase IV fluid rate and notify anesthesia provider

Answer

Increasing IV fluid rate addresses potential hypovolemia and notifying the anesthesia provider ensures timely evaluation of a significant hemodynamic change.

Question 5

A patient in the PACU following abdominal surgery has a urine output of 15 mL/hour for 2 consecutive hours. Which assessment finding would best help differentiate prerenal from intrinsic renal failure?

Accepted Answer

Urine sodium < 10 mEq/L

Answer

Urine sodium < 10 mEq/L indicates the kidney is reabsorbing sodium maximally, suggesting prerenal azotemia rather than intrinsic renal damage.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN Patient Assessment and Evaluation 2