Postoperative Review Questions

Question 1

What are the common causes of respiratory problems in the PACU? What action do you take for each?

Answer 1

Hypoxemia (related atelectasis) (deep breathing, incentive spirometry, early mobilization) , Airway Obstruction, Bronchospasm (O2 therapy, bronchodilators), Hypoventilation

Question 2

What do you do for a patient with a low temp in the PACU?

Answer 2

Take temp every 30 min, external warming devices, O2, suppression of shivering w/opioids (Demerol)

Question 3

What is the first thing you do when a patient arrives on your floor from the PACU?

Answer 3

Assess ABC’s, look carefully for signs of inadequate oxygenation/ventilation

Question 4

What do you do in a patient hasn’t voided within 8 hours of leaving the PACU?

Answer 4

Insert a straight catheter

Question 5

How do you prevent VTE in postop patients?

Answer 5

LMWH, socks

Question 6

What concerns do you have regarding a patient who has received regional analgesia?

Answer 6

(Spinal or Epidural) Sensory and motor blockade may still be present. A dermatone level should be checked to determine the level of return.