Author Question: Establishing a patient's preoperative baseline is very important because it can alert the caregiver ... (Read 48 times)

dejastew · **on:** Jul 18, 2018

Establishing a patient's preoperative baseline is very important because it can alert the caregiver to any physiologic changes.

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Question 2

When sending an arterial blood gas sample to the laboratory for analysis, never place the specimen on ice because that will cause the sample to coagulate and not be usable.

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

ladyjames123 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 18, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: T
Establishing a baseline enables caregivers to take the valuable preoperative information and monitor the patient for any changes. It also helps in planning postoperative care.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: F
If there is a delay in getting the blood gas sample analyzed, the syringe with the blood should be immersed in ice immediately and refrigerated at near freezing temperature. Iced specimen bags may be used.