How is the initial information given to the PACU nurses about the surgical patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a postoperative setting like the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), timely and accurate communication of critical information about the surgical patient is essential for providing safe and effective care. The correct answer, option C, a verbal report from the anesthesia care provider (ACP), is the most appropriate initial source of information for PACU nurses. The ACP has firsthand knowledge of the patient's intraoperative course, anesthetic management, any complications during surgery, and immediate postoperative concerns. This information is crucial for the PACU team to anticipate and address potential postoperative issues promptly. Option A, providing a copy of the written operative report, is not the best choice for initial communication in the PACU because it may not capture real-time updates or immediate postoperative events that could impact patient care. Option B, a verbal report from the circulating nurse, may not provide comprehensive details about the patient's anesthesia, intraoperative course, or postoperative considerations, which are crucial in the PACU setting. Option D, an explanation of the surgical procedure from the surgeon, is important for long-term care planning but may not be as immediately relevant for the PACU team's immediate postoperative management. Educationally, understanding the flow of information in a perioperative setting is vital for healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care and patient safety. Emphasizing the importance of accurate and timely communication channels, like receiving a verbal report from the anesthesia care provider in the PACU, helps reinforce best practices in postoperative care and promotes effective interdisciplinary teamwork in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of preventing or treating postoperative syncope, the correct nursing intervention of slowly progressing to ambulation with slow changes in position (Option C) is crucial. This approach helps to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure and subsequent syncope episodes by allowing the body to adjust gradually to changes in position. Option A, monitoring vital signs after ambulation, is important but does not directly address the prevention of syncope during ambulation. Option B, not allowing the patient to eat before ambulation, is not directly related to preventing syncope and may not be evidence-based. Option D, having the patient deep breathe and cough before getting out of bed, is more relevant to preventing respiratory complications rather than syncope specifically. Educationally, it is essential for nursing students and healthcare providers to understand the importance of gradual progression in ambulation to prevent orthostatic hypotension and syncope postoperatively. This rationale emphasizes the significance of patient safety and the implementation of evidence-based practices in postoperative care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Proper body alignment of a hemiplegic patient is crucial to prevent complications. In this scenario, utilizing a footboard, trochanter rolls, and pillows helps maintain correct positioning. The correct answer is A) plantar extension. By supporting the foot in a neutral position with a footboard, plantar extension (foot dropping down) is prevented, reducing the risk of foot contractures. Option B) shoulder abduction is incorrect because the question pertains to lower body alignment, not upper body positioning. Option C) internal hip rotation is incorrect as the provided aids focus on maintaining external rotation to prevent hip contractures. Option D) external hip rotation is incorrect since the aids assist in preventing internal rotation which is more common in hemiplegic patients. Educationally, understanding proper body alignment techniques is essential for caregivers to prevent complications like contractures and pressure ulcers in immobile patients. By learning how to use supportive devices effectively, healthcare providers can enhance patient comfort and quality of care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate response to Mrs. Brown's query about the difference between wide- and narrow-angle glaucoma is option B) "Wide-angle glaucoma is usually asymptomatic." This answer is correct because wide-angle glaucoma typically does not present with obvious symptoms in its early stages, making it challenging to detect without regular eye exams. Option A is incorrect because wide-angle glaucoma is characterized by a gradual increase in intraocular pressure, which can lead to optic nerve damage if left untreated. Option C is incorrect as complications from wide-angle glaucoma, such as vision loss and blindness, are often more severe compared to narrow-angle glaucoma. Option D is also incorrect because narrow-angle glaucoma can present with symptoms like sudden eye pain, blurred vision, and halos around lights due to a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. Educationally, understanding the differences between wide-angle and narrow-angle glaucoma is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and manage these conditions. Teaching healthcare professionals to recognize the subtle variations in symptoms and risk factors associated with different types of glaucoma can lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes for patients. Regular training and updates on the latest guidelines for glaucoma management are essential for healthcare professionals to provide optimal care for patients with these conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) her head turned toward the affected eye. When a chemical splashes into the eye, immediate irrigation is crucial to prevent further damage. By turning the head towards the affected eye, gravity helps to ensure that the chemical is flushed out, reducing the chances of it flowing into the unaffected eye. Option A) an acid solution and B) a basic solution are incorrect because adding another chemical could potentially worsen the situation by causing a chemical reaction. It is essential to only use water or saline solution for irrigation in such cases to dilute and remove the chemical. Educationally, understanding proper first aid measures for chemical exposure to the eye is vital in a medical-surgical setting. Prompt and correct actions can prevent serious eye injuries and complications. Teaching healthcare professionals and individuals the correct steps to take in such emergencies can save vision and prevent long-term damage.