DAANCE Patient Monitoring Techniques 4

Question 1

A patient under IV sedation suddenly develops a SpO2 reading of 88%. What is the FIRST action the dental anesthesia assistant should take?

Accepted Answer

Check that the pulse oximeter probe is properly seated

Answer

An artifactually low SpO2 reading should first be verified by checking probe placement before escalating to clinical interventions.

Question 2

Which waveform on a capnograph indicates normal ventilation during moderate sedation?

Accepted Answer

A square-wave pattern with end-tidal CO2 of 35–45 mmHg

Answer

A normal capnogram shows a square wave with an alveolar plateau ending at an EtCO2 of 35–45 mmHg, confirming adequate ventilation.

Question 3

During monitoring, you notice the patient's respiratory rate has dropped to 6 breaths per minute. Which sedation complication does this MOST likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory depression

Answer

A respiratory rate below 8–10 breaths per minute is a hallmark sign of respiratory depression, commonly caused by opioid or benzodiazepine oversedation.

Question 4

When using a precordial stethoscope during sedation, the assistant is primarily monitoring for:

Accepted Answer

Breath and heart sounds continuously

Answer

A precordial stethoscope placed over the chest allows continuous auscultation of breath and heart sounds without interrupting the procedure.

Question 5

A patient's blood pressure reading is 158/96 mmHg before a sedation procedure. According to ADA guidelines, the appropriate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Postpone treatment and refer the patient for medical evaluation

Answer

A BP of 158/96 mmHg falls into Stage 2 hypertension; elective dental procedures should be deferred and the patient referred for medical evaluation.

DAANCE - Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination Practice Test

DAANCE - Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination Practice Test

DAANCE Patient Monitoring Techniques 4