CPAN Roles and Responsibilities 5

Question 1

A patient in Phase I PACU begins exhibiting laryngospasm. What is the PACU nurse's immediate responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Apply positive pressure ventilation with 100% O2 and call for anesthesia provider immediately

Answer

Laryngospasm is a complete or partial upper airway obstruction requiring immediate positive pressure ventilation and anesthesia provider support.

Question 2

According to ASPAN staffing guidelines, what is the minimum nurse-to-patient ratio for a Phase I PACU patient who is critically ill and unstable?

Accepted Answer

1:1 with a second nurse immediately available

Answer

ASPAN standards require a 1:1 ratio for unstable Phase I patients with a second nurse immediately available to assist.

Question 3

A PACU nurse is performing a hand-off to the next shift. Which element is most critical to communicate regarding a post-spinal anesthesia patient?

Accepted Answer

Sensory and motor block level and time of last neurological check

Answer

Monitoring the resolution of spinal block is essential post-spinal anesthesia; communicating block level and neurological status ensures continuity of safety monitoring.

Question 4

A PACU nurse notes that a pediatric patient is crying inconsolably and pulling at the surgical site 20 minutes post-operatively. The parent states the child does not speak English. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Use a validated pediatric pain scale, obtain interpreter services, and involve the parent in assessment

Answer

Validated pediatric pain scales and professional interpreter services ensure accurate assessment while language barriers and parent involvement are addressed appropriately.

Question 5

Which of the following actions best demonstrates the PACU nurse's responsibility for evidence-based practice?

Accepted Answer

Reviewing current ASPAN Practice Recommendations and incorporating updated protocols into care

Answer

Evidence-based practice requires actively reviewing and applying current standards such as ASPAN Practice Recommendations to guide patient care.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN Roles and Responsibilities 5