ATI LPN
Perioperative Care Fundamentals Practice Questions Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who underwent a hip replacement 36 hours ago. The patient reports shortness of breath and chest pain. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Checking oxygen saturation assesses for pulmonary embolism, per priority data collection. Oxygen or notification follows; coughing is secondary. Postoperative care evaluates respiratory distress.
Question 2 of 5
A client in the operating room has developed malignant hyperthermia. The clients potassium is 6.5 mEq/L. What action by the nurse takes priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Insulin rapidly shifts potassium into cells treating the hyperkalemia associated with malignant hyperthermia.
Question 3 of 5
A postoperative client has respiratory depression after receiving midazolam (Versed) for sedation. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Assessing the airway always takes priority followed by breathing and circulation.
Question 4 of 5
A circulating nurse is responsible for ensuring client safety. If an electrical cord is frayed, what action by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ensuring client safety by replacing faulty equipment is the priority.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving oxygen therapy for pneumonia. How should the nurse best assess whether the patient is hypoxemic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Assessing hypoxemia, a deficiency in oxygen reaching tissues, requires a direct, real-time measure of oxygenation, making pulse oximetry (oxygen saturation) the best bedside method. It provides an immediate percentage of oxygenated hemoglobin, typically aiming above 92%, reflecting lung function and oxygen delivery effectiveness in pneumonia. Level of consciousness may indicate severe hypoxia if altered, but it's nonspecific and late-stage. Cyanosis, a bluish tint in extremities, is unreliable as it appears only with significant desaturation (below 80%) and varies with skin tone or circulation. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and RBC levels assess oxygen-carrying capacity, not current oxygenation status, and require lab processing, delaying intervention. Pulse oximetry, often paired with arterial blood gases for confirmation, allows the nurse to quickly adjust oxygen therapy, ensuring timely correction of hypoxemia in this acute respiratory condition.