Author Question: A patient is being prepared for a spinal fusion. While in the holding area, which action by a member ... (Read 87 times)

mrsjacobs44 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A patient is being prepared for a spinal fusion. While in the holding area, which action by a member of the surgical team requires rapid intervention by the charge nurse?

a. Wearing street clothes into the nursing station
b. Wearing a surgical mask into the holding room
c. Walking into the hallway outside an operating room without the hair covered
d. Putting on a surgical mask, cap, and scrubs before entering the operating room

Question 2

A patient in surgery receives a neuromuscular blocking agent as an adjunct to general anesthesia. While in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), what assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report?

a. Laryngospasm
b. Complaint of nausea
c. Weak chest wall movement
d. Patient unable to recall the correct date

Edwyer · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The corridors outside the operating room (OR) are part of the semirestricted area where personnel must wear surgical attire and head coverings. Surgical masks may be worn in the holding room, although they are not necessary. Street clothes may be worn at the nursing station, which is part of the unrestricted area. Wearing a mask and scrubs is essential when going into the OR.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The most serious adverse effect of the neuromuscular blocking agents is weakness of the respiratory muscles, which can lead to postoperative hypoxemia. Nausea and confusion are possible adverse effects of these drugs, but they are not as great of concern as respiratory depression. Because these medications decrease muscle contraction, laryngospasm is not a concern.