CPAN Thermoregulation and Temperature Management

Question 1

What is the normal core body temperature range for an adult patient in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

36.5–37.5°C (97.7–99.5°F)

Answer

Normal adult core body temperature is 36.5–37.5°C (97.7–99.5°F); values outside this range require intervention in the PACU.

Question 2

Post-operative hypothermia in adult PACU patients is defined as a core temperature below which value?

Accepted Answer

36.0°C (96.8°F)

Answer

A core temperature below 36.0°C (96.8°F) is the clinical threshold for post-operative hypothermia in adult patients.

Question 3

Which warming method is considered most effective for treating mild to moderate post-operative hypothermia in the PACU?

Accepted Answer

Forced-air warming devices

Answer

Forced-air warming devices (e.g., Bair Hugger) are the most effective active external warming method for treating post-operative hypothermia.

Question 4

Post-operative shivering primarily increases which physiological demand?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen consumption

Answer

Shivering increases metabolic rate and oxygen consumption by up to 400–500%, stressing cardiopulmonary reserves.

Question 5

Which inhalational anesthetic agent is most associated with triggering malignant hyperthermia (MH)?

Accepted Answer

Halothane

Answer

Halothane (and other volatile halogenated agents) along with succinylcholine are the classic triggers for malignant hyperthermia.

(CPAN) Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse Practice Test