ABPANC ABPANC Perianesthesia Complications

Question 1

A patient in the PACU becomes agitated, tachycardic, and diaphoretic 20 minutes after receiving succinylcholine. Temperature is rising rapidly. What complication should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Malignant hyperthermia

Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Answer

Septic shock

Answer

Hypertensive emergency

Question 2

What is the first-line treatment for malignant hyperthermia?

Accepted Answer

Dantrolene sodium IV

Answer

Haloperidol IV

Answer

Propofol infusion

Answer

Magnesium sulfate IV

Question 3

A patient emerges from general anesthesia with stridor and increased work of breathing. Which intervention is the priority?

Accepted Answer

Apply jaw thrust and call for anesthesia provider immediately

Answer

Administer IV furosemide

Answer

Increase IV fluid rate

Answer

Administer oral diphenhydramine

Question 4

A patient develops hypotension (BP 80/50) in the PACU after spinal anesthesia. Which intervention is most appropriate as the initial response?

Accepted Answer

Position the patient in Trendelenburg and administer IV fluid bolus as ordered

Answer

Administer IV epinephrine 1 mg

Answer

Apply a tourniquet to both legs

Answer

Administer oral hydration only

Question 5

Which assessment finding is an early sign of postoperative pulmonary embolism (PE) in a PACU patient?

Accepted Answer

Sudden onset tachycardia, dyspnea, and decreased SpO2

Answer

Bradycardia with widened pulse pressure

Answer

Gradual-onset hypertension over 2 hours

Answer

Productive cough with purulent sputum

Question 6

A patient becomes unresponsive with no palpable pulse in the PACU. What is the nurse's immediate priority action?

Accepted Answer

Activate the emergency response system and begin CPR

Answer

Call the surgeon to the bedside

Answer

Administer IV atropine

Answer

Obtain a 12-lead ECG before intervening