Preoperative Teaching
What is the key reason why patients should not drive after receiving general anesthesia?
Anesthesia can impair judgment, coordination, and reflexes, making it unsafe to drive
What family history should be discussed in preoperative assessments due to a potential risk of malignant hyperthermia?
A family history of malignant hyperthermia should be noted, as it can lead to dangerous reactions to certain anesthetics.
What is a "surgical time out" and why is it important?
A surgical time out is a safety procedure where the surgical team confirms the correct patient, procedure, and site before starting surgery.
What should a nurse do if a patient exhibits borderline oxygen levels and is drowsy after surgery?
The nurse should encourage the patient to take deep breaths to improve oxygenation.
What is the role of the scrub nurse during the surgical procedure?
The scrub nurse is responsible for maintaining sterile technique, passing instruments, and assisting the surgeon.
Why is it necessary to test HCG in childbearing women before surgery?
To confirm whether the patient is pregnant, as anesthesia can have risks to a developing fetus.
Why would atropine be given preoperatively, and what side effect should nurses watch for?
Atropine is given to reduce secretions, but it can cause dry mouth.
How does surgical aseptic technique help prevent infection?
Aseptic technique ensures that all instruments, equipment, and environment are free from pathogens, minimizing the risk of infection.
What is a potential complication of administering general anesthesia in patients with a history of asthma, and how can it be managed?
Asthma patients may experience bronchospasm during or after anesthesia. Management includes ensuring the patient uses a bronchodilator preoperatively and closely monitoring respiratory function during recovery.
Why is it important for a nurse to understand the use of monitored anesthesia care (MAC)?
MAC involves administering anesthesia while maintaining the patient's ability to respond to verbal commands. The nurse must monitor the patient’s vital signs and consciousness level.
What food allergies are commonly associated with latex allergies, requiring special preoperative precautions?
Allergies to certain fruits such as bananas, kiwis, and avocados are often linked to latex allergies.
What should be monitored if a patient is exhibiting signs of emergence delirium postoperatively?
Oxygen saturation should be monitored, and pain management may be adjusted to help the patient recover smoothly from anesthesia.
How does the grounding pad reduce the risk of burn injury during surgery?
The grounding pad helps disperse electrical energy from the surgical instruments, reducing the risk of a direct burn injury.
What is a common risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in postoperative patients?
Immobility, dehydration, and certain surgeries increase the risk for DVT.
Why is patient positioning important in individuals with arthritis undergoing surgery?
Proper positioning helps avoid stress on joints and alleviates discomfort, while ensuring safe surgical access.
What herbal supplement use can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery?
Herbs like garlic, ginkgo biloba, and ginger can increase bleeding risk.
What signs should the nurse look for that may indicate an allergic reaction to general anesthesia?
Signs such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
What is a critical factor to monitor in postoperative patients with diabetes?
Blood glucose levels must be monitored closely to prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia after surgery.
What should a nurse do if a postoperative patient has difficulty urinating?
The nurse should perform a bladder scan to check for urinary retention.
What are some of the responsibilities of the CRNA during surgery?
The CRNA administers anesthesia, monitors the patient’s vital signs, and adjusts anesthesia levels as necessary.
What is the role of deep breathing exercises in preoperative teaching?
Deep breathing exercises help improve lung function, reduce anxiety, and prevent atelectasis after surgery.
What is the risk of using inhaled anesthesia during a surgical procedure?
Inhaled anesthesia can cause laryngospasm, which is a sudden, involuntary contraction of the vocal cords that can block the airway.
What is the recommended recovery position for a patient who is recovering from anesthesia?
The lateral recovery position is ideal as it helps with airway management and reduces the risk of aspiration.
What is a potential adverse effect of neuromuscular blocking agents used in anesthesia?
Neuromuscular blocking agents can cause muscle weakness or paralysis and require careful monitoring of respiratory function.
How does a nurse ensure the safety of a patient who is receiving anesthesia during a procedure?
The nurse verifies the patient’s identity and surgical site, monitors the patient’s condition throughout the procedure, and assists the surgical team in maintaining a sterile environment.