The new post op client in PACU suddenly develops a temperature of 103 degrees F. What would you suspect?
The development of malignant hyperthermia
The development of fluid volume excess
The development of an allergic response to the pain medication
The development of an infection.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The development of malignant hyperthermia: Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a life-threatening reaction to certain anesthetics (e.g., succinylcholine, halothane). It causes rapid muscle breakdown, severe hyperthermia, tachycardia, muscle rigidity, and metabolic acidosis. Immediate treatment with IV dantrolene and cooling measures is required.
B. The development of fluid volume excess: Fluid overload may cause hypertension and pulmonary edema but does not cause sudden high fever.
C. The development of an allergic response to the pain medication: Drug allergies typically present with rash, itching, or anaphylaxis, not extreme fever.
D. The development of an infection. Post-op infections usually develop over several days, not immediately in PACU.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The development of malignant hyperthermia: Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a life-threatening reaction to certain anesthetics (e.g., succinylcholine, halothane). It causes rapid muscle breakdown, severe hyperthermia, tachycardia, muscle rigidity, and metabolic acidosis. Immediate treatment with IV dantrolene and cooling measures is required.
B. The development of fluid volume excess: Fluid overload may cause hypertension and pulmonary edema but does not cause sudden high fever.
C. The development of an allergic response to the pain medication: Drug allergies typically present with rash, itching, or anaphylaxis, not extreme fever.
D. The development of an infection. Post-op infections usually develop over several days, not immediately in PACU.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Place the client on seizure precautions: Metabolic alkalosis can cause neuromuscular excitability, increasing the risk of seizures.
B. Encourage the client to breathe slowly: Slow breathing retains CO₂, which worsens alkalosis. The body needs hypoventilation, but this cannot be forced.
C. Plan to administer sodium bicarbonate to the client: Sodium bicarbonate worsens alkalosis and is only used in metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis.
D. Have the client breathe into a paper bag: This is a treatment for respiratory alkalosis, not metabolic alkalosis.
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