An unconscious patient who was transferred from surgery to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) 15 minutes ago has an oxygen saturation of 89%. Which action should the nurse take first?

Increase the oxygen flowrate.

Elevate the patient's head on two pillows.

Suction the patient's mouth.

Perform the jaw-thrust maneuver.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. The most appropriate first action would be to increase the oxygen flowrate to improve the patient's oxygen saturation levels. This intervention directly addresses the hypoxemia and can help prevent further complications related to low oxygen levels in the blood.

B. Elevating the patient's head can help improve ventilation and oxygenation. By raising the head, the patient's airway may become more patent, allowing for better airflow and oxygen exchange in the lungs. However, this should follow oxygenation.

C. Suctioning the patient's mouth aims to remove any secretions or obstructions that may be compromising the airway and contributing to the low oxygen saturation. However, this should follow oxygenation.

D. This maneuver can be helpful if the airway is obstructed by the tongue or soft tissues, potentially improving ventilation and oxygenation. However, this should follow oxygenation.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. This information is important to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team as it indicates a potential family history of adverse reactions to anesthesia. Family history of anesthesia-related complications, especially in close relatives, can influence the anesthetic plan and help mitigate potential risks during surgery.

A. Clear fluids, such as apple juice, are typically allowed up to 2 hours before surgery, but the specific fasting instructions may vary depending on the institution's protocol and the type of surgery planned.

B. This information provides insight into the patient's caffeine consumption habits but it is not typically considered a critical factor to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team before surgery.

D. Knowing the duration of aspirin cessation allows the anesthesia team to assess the patient's coagulation status and adjust the perioperative management accordingly. However, it does not present immediate risks as significant as a family history of anesthetic complications.

A. Keep the leg in a dependent position. B. Apply ice to the affected area. C. Remain on bedrest for the first 24 hr. D. Begin active range of motion.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

B. Applying ice to the affected knee is a common postoperative instruction after arthroscopic knee surgery. Ice helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain in the surgical area. It is usually recommended to apply ice intermittently for short periods during the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery.

A. Keeping the leg in a dependent position, where it is hanging down, is not typically recommended following arthroscopic knee surgery.

C. Complete bedrest for the first 24 hours after arthroscopic knee surgery is not typically necessary or recommended. Early mobilization and gentle range of motion exercises are usually encouraged to prevent complications such as blood clots and joint stiffness.

D. These exercises help restore joint mobility, prevent stiffness, and promote healing of the surgical site. However, the timing and specific exercises should be guided by the surgeon's instructions and individual patient factors.

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An unconscious patient who was transferred from surgery to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) 15 minutes ago has an oxygen saturation of 89%. Which action should the nurse take first?

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