A patient who has returned to the surgical nursing unit from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) is drowsy and requires verbal stimulation to remain aroused. The best position to maintain an airway for this patient is:

head of bed at 45 degrees with head and neck midline.

side lying.

supine.

head of bed at 30 degrees with head and neck midline.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Head of bed at 45 degrees with head and neck midline. Although the head of the bed at 45 degrees can be appropriate for some patients, it is not the best position to maintain a patent airway for a drowsy postoperative patient. This position can lead to airway obstruction, especially if the patient is drowsy.

B. Side lying. The side-lying position is the best choice for a patient who is drowsy and requires verbal stimulation to remain aroused. This position prevents aspiration and ensures that the airway remains patent by allowing any secretions or fluids to drain from the mouth. It is especially useful in the postoperative period to prevent airway obstruction.

C. Supine. The supine position is not ideal for a drowsy postoperative patient, as it can increase the risk of airway obstruction. The tongue may fall back and obstruct the airway, particularly if the patient is drowsy.

D. Head of bed at 30 degrees with head and neck midline. Although elevating the head of the bed at 30 degrees is common, it is not the best choice for a drowsy patient at risk for airway obstruction. Side-lying would be more effective in preventing aspiration and maintaining the airway.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Circulating nurse: The circulating nurse does not obtain the surgical consent. Their role is to assist in the operating room by managing supplies, documentation, and ensuring the safety of the environment.

B. Admitting department: The admitting department is involved in the patient’s admission process but does not obtain surgical consent.

C. Scrub tech: The scrub tech assists during surgery but does not obtain surgical consent. Their role is focused on sterile technique and assisting with instruments.

D. Surgeon: The surgeon is the one responsible for obtaining the patient's informed consent for surgery, ensuring that the patient understands the procedure, risks, and benefits.

A. time of last meal. B. pulse rate and blood pressure. C. height and weight. D. respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Time of last meal: Time of the last meal is essential for preventing aspiration during anesthesia but does not help determine the exact amount of anesthesia needed.

B. Pulse rate and blood pressure: Pulse rate and blood pressure are important for assessing the patient's cardiovascular status but are not directly used to calculate the amount of anesthesia needed.

C. Height and weight: Height and weight are critical for calculating the correct dose of anesthesia, as these factors affect the distribution and metabolism of the drug.

D. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation: Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are important for monitoring respiratory function, but they do not provide specific data needed to calculate the amount of anesthesia.

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A patient who has returned to the surgical nursing unit from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) is drowsy and requires verbal stimulation to remain aroused. The best position to maintain an airway for this patient is:

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Correct Answer is C

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