Assessment & Prep
What is the purpose of the preoperative assessment?
To identify risk factors, allergies, medication history, and baseline vital signs to ensure patient safety.
What is malignant hyperthermia?
A life-threatening reaction to certain anesthesia
Name one type of anesthesia used in surgery.
Local, general, regional, or conscious sedation.
Name one intraoperative safety precaution (not related to positioning).
Fire safety.
What is the minimum urine output expected postoperatively?
30mL/hr
What does the procedure verification process/hand-off report include?
Correct patient, procedure, site, consent, allergies, and current medications.
Why is instrument and sponge counting critical?
To prevent retained surgical items and ensure patient safety.
What is a major risk of opioids given intraoperatively?
Respiratory depression.
What is the purpose of the surgical safety checklist?
To verify patient identity, procedure, equipment, and prevent errors.
Name one nursing intervention to maintain airway patency postoperatively.
Elevate head of bed, suction secretions, monitor breathing.
Name two diagnostic tests commonly ordered preoperatively.
CBC and electrolytes (others include T&S, coagulation studies, pregnancy test).
Name one major risk if sterile technique is broken.
Surgical site infection.
What is the purpose of antiemetics during surgery?
To prevent nausea and vomiting.
What are sequential compression devices (SCDs) used for?
To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
What is the Aldrete score used for?
To evaluate safe discharge from the PACU
What is the ASA classification for a healthy adult?
ASA 1.
What is a potential risk for surgical fire, and how can it be prevented?
Oxygen-rich environment with cautery — manage O₂ levels and follow safety protocols.
What should be monitored when giving heparin preoperatively?
Signs of bleeding and coagulation labs.
What are early signs of intraoperative infection?
Fever, increased heart rate, and localized redness/swelling (though infection often develops post-op).
Name two nursing interventions to prevent postoperative complications.
Early ambulation and pain control.
What ASA score represents a patient with severe systemic disease that is a constant threat to life?
ASA 4
What is the treatment for malignant hyperthermia?
Daltrolene
Which benzodiazepine is commonly used for sedation during procedures?
Midazolam
What is a critical nursing role in preventing surgical site infection?
Strict aseptic technique and proper instrument handling.
What vital signs change might indicate hypovolemic shock postoperatively?
Tachycardia, hypotension, cool/clammy skin, restlessness, decreased urine output.