FREE ABPANC Behavioral Health/Cognitive Needs Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient in the PACU is waking up after anesthesia and begins crying and asking repeatedly, “What happened to me?” What is the nurse’s best response?

Accepted Answer

“You’re safe here; you had surgery, and you are recovering well.”

Answer

“You’re in the recovery room, and everything is fine.”

Answer

“Don’t worry; you’ll feel better soon. Try to relax.”

Answer

“You’re just confused from the anesthesia. You’ll remember soon.”

Question 2

A child scheduled for ambulatory surgery begins to cry and refuse to go into the operating room. What is the most appropriate intervention by the nurse?

Accepted Answer

Allow a parent to accompany the child to the OR if permitted.

Answer

Firmly tell the child they must cooperate so the surgery can proceed.

Answer

Distract the child with toys or videos to reduce fear.

Answer

Ignore the crying since it is normal for children to be scared.

Question 3

A post-anesthesia patient begins exhibiting signs of delirium, including restlessness and pulling at IV lines. What is the nurse's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Assess for hypoxia, hypoglycemia, or pain as contributing factors.

Answer

Restrain the patient to prevent harm.

Answer

Provide sedation to calm the patient.

Answer

Ignore the behavior, as delirium often resolves spontaneously.

Question 4

A patient recovering from surgery is anxious and expresses concern about returning to work due to financial stress. What is the nurse’s most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

“I understand your concern. Would you like to talk to a social worker for assistance?”

Answer

“Let’s focus on your recovery first; you can worry about work later.”

Answer

“You should take all the time you need off work to get better.”

Answer

“You’ll probably feel better tomorrow, so you can get back to work soon.”

Question 5

An elderly patient in Phase I recovery becomes agitated and repeatedly asks for their spouse, who has passed away. What is the most therapeutic nursing response?

Accepted Answer

“I can see you’re worried. I’m here with you, and you’re safe.”

Answer

“Your spouse isn’t here. Do you remember that they passed away?”

Answer

“You’re just confused from the anesthesia. Try to rest now.”

Answer

“I’ll call your spouse to come as soon as possible.”