Question 1

A patient in the PACU is found to have noisy, irregular respirations and cyanosis. The nurse suspects hypopharyngeal obstruction. What is the most immediate nursing intervention?

Accepted Answer

Reposition the patient’s head and jaw to open the airway.

Question 2

Which of the following is a primary indicator that a patient is ready for discharge from the PACU according to the Aldrete scoring system?

Accepted Answer

Aldrete score between 7 and 10

Question 3

A postoperative patient is experiencing severe nausea and vomiting. Which medication is classified as a serotonin antagonist and is commonly used to control postoperative nausea and vomiting?

Accepted Answer

Ondansetron

Question 4

A nurse is caring for an older adult patient in the PACU who becomes confused and agitated. Which of the following is NOT a potential cause of postoperative delirium?

Accepted Answer

Early ambulation

Question 5

A patient’s wound edges have separated, and the bowel is protruding through the incision. What is the most appropriate initial nursing action?

Accepted Answer

Place the patient in low Fowler position and cover the wound with sterile saline-soaked dressings.

Question 6

Which of the following is a benefit of multimodal analgesia in postoperative pain management?

Accepted Answer

It combines different analgesic methods to improve pain control and reduce opioid use.

Question 7

A nurse is teaching a patient about deep breathing and coughing exercises after surgery. What is the primary purpose of these exercises?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the risk of respiratory complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia

Question 8

A postoperative patient is at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Which of the following interventions is most effective in preventing VTE?

Accepted Answer

Encouraging early ambulation and use of antiembolism stockings

Question 9

A patient is receiving patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) after surgery. Which statement indicates the patient understands the purpose of PCA?

Accepted Answer

I can self-administer pain medication when I feel pain, which helps prevent delays in pain relief.

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a recommended nursing intervention for maintaining a safe environment in the immediate postoperative period?

Accepted Answer

Using restraints routinely for all postoperative patients

Question 11

A nurse is preparing to change a postoperative dressing. Which of the following steps is essential to prevent infection during the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Perform hand hygiene before and after the procedure.

Question 12

A patient is unable to void after surgery despite having a strong urge. Which intervention should the nurse try first?

Accepted Answer

Encourage the patient to listen to running water and provide privacy.

Question 13

Which of the following is a critical component of discharge teaching for a postoperative patient and caregiver?

Accepted Answer

Instructions on how to change dressings and recognize signs of complications

Question 14

A nurse is assessing a postoperative patient for wound healing. Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for impaired wound healing?

Accepted Answer

Early ambulation

Question 15

A patient in the PACU is shivering and has a low body temperature. Which intervention is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Apply warm blankets and monitor temperature closely.

Question 16

Which of the following is a sign of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in a postoperative patient?

Accepted Answer

Sudden onset of chest pain and shortness of breath

Question 17

A nurse is caring for a patient with a Penrose drain. What is the primary purpose of this drain?

Accepted Answer

To allow escape of fluids and prevent bacterial growth

Question 18

A postoperative patient is at risk for constipation. Which intervention is most effective in promoting bowel elimination?

Accepted Answer

Early ambulation and improved dietary intake

Question 19

A nurse is evaluating a patient’s readiness to learn about postoperative wound care. Which behavior indicates readiness?

Accepted Answer

The patient expresses interest and assists in the dressing change.

Postoperative Nursing Management: Study Notes for Introduction to Psychology Students

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards