Which is the priority initial assessment for a patient who is admitted to the post anesthesia care unit (PACU) after surgery with general anesthesia?
Temperature
Heart rate
Respirations
Blood pressure
The Correct Answer is C
A. Temperature: While temperature monitoring is important, hypothermia is not the most immediate concern after general anesthesia.
B. Heart rate: Although heart rate should be monitored, it is not the first priority in assessing an anesthetized patient.
C. Respirations: Airway and breathing are the top priorities in the PACU. General anesthesia can depress respiratory function, increasing the risk of airway obstruction or hypoventilation. Ensuring adequate ventilation is the first step in assessment.
D. Blood pressure: Blood pressure is important but secondary to airway and breathing in the initial assessment.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. To ensure that the medication is covered by insurance: Insurance coverage is not related to black box warnings.
B. To inform healthcare providers and consumers of potentially dangerous side effects: A black box warning is the strongest safety warning issued by the FDA, highlighting serious, potentially life-threatening risks of a medication.
C. To indicate that the medication is safe for all individuals to use: A black box warning indicates increased risks, not universal safety.
D. To promote the use of the medication for off-label purposes: Black box warnings do not encourage off-label use; they warn against potential dangers.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Numbness of fingers. Numbness or tingling (paresthesia) is more common in respiratory alkalosis due to low CO₂ levels causing calcium binding changes.
B. Dry skin. Respiratory acidosis does not typically cause dry skin; rather, it may cause cyanosis or flushed skin due to CO₂ retention.
C. Abdominal pain. Abdominal pain is more commonly seen in metabolic acidosis, not respiratory acidosis.
D. Lethargy. Respiratory acidosis leads to CO₂ retention, which depresses the central nervous system, causing lethargy, confusion, and even coma in severe cases.
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