CPAN Thermoregulation and Temperature Management 3

Question 1

Which pharmacological agent is most commonly used to treat post-operative shivering in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Meperidine (pethidine)

Answer

Meperidine (pethidine) at low doses (12.5–25 mg IV) is the most effective pharmacological treatment for post-operative shivering.

Question 2

Unexplained hyperthermia in the PACU should prompt the nurse to first assess for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Malignant hyperthermia or infection

Answer

Unexplained fever in the PACU must urgently rule out malignant hyperthermia or an infectious source, as both require immediate intervention.

Question 3

The initial recommended dose of dantrolene sodium for treatment of malignant hyperthermia is:

Accepted Answer

2.5 mg/kg IV, repeated up to 10 mg/kg

Answer

The MHAUS-recommended initial dose of dantrolene is 2.5 mg/kg IV, given rapidly and repeated every 5 minutes up to 10 mg/kg until symptoms resolve.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a passive warming technique used in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Cotton blankets and head coverings

Answer

Passive warming techniques (cotton blankets, head coverings, warming the environment) reduce heat loss without adding external heat energy to the patient.

Question 5

For non-invasive continuous temperature monitoring in PACU patients, which site is considered the most accurate accessible alternative to pulmonary artery measurement?

Accepted Answer

Tympanic membrane

Answer

Tympanic membrane temperature closely reflects core (hypothalamic) temperature through its shared blood supply with the brain and is a practical, accurate non-invasive site.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test

CPAN Thermoregulation and Temperature Management 3