CSFA Postoperative and Emergency Care 2

Question 1

A patient in the PACU develops stridor and accessory muscle use 20 minutes after extubation. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Laryngospasm

Answer

Laryngospasm presents with high-pitched stridor and increased work of breathing and is a common postextubation complication in the PACU.

Question 2

Which intervention is the FIRST priority when a patient develops malignant hyperthermia intraoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Discontinue triggering agents and administer dantrolene

Answer

Discontinuing triggering agents (volatile anesthetics, succinylcholine) and giving IV dantrolene are the immediate priorities in malignant hyperthermia management.

Question 3

Postoperative oliguria is defined as urine output less than:

Accepted Answer

0.5 mL/kg/hr

Answer

Oliguria is defined as urine output less than 0.5 mL/kg/hr and indicates potentially inadequate renal perfusion.

Question 4

A patient's SpO2 drops to 88% in the PACU. After applying supplemental oxygen, the reading improves to 95%. What is the most appropriate next action?

Accepted Answer

Reassess the patient frequently and document the oxygen requirement

Answer

Response to supplemental oxygen is reassuring, but the patient must be closely monitored and the supplemental oxygen requirement documented before discharge.

Question 5

Which of the following is a cardinal sign of compartment syndrome in a postoperative extremity?

Accepted Answer

Pain disproportionate to the injury that worsens with passive stretch

Answer

Pain out of proportion to the injury and pain on passive stretch are the earliest and most reliable signs of acute compartment syndrome.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Postoperative and Emergency Care 2