Author Question: Intraoperatively, the circulating nurse observes a member of the surgical team breach aseptic ... (Read 54 times)

skymedlock · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

Intraoperatively, the circulating nurse observes a member of the surgical team breach aseptic technique. As a result of this incident the postoperative patient can be at risk for which of the following?

a. Paralytic ileus
b. Malignant hyperthermia
c. Development of infection
d. Alteration in pulmonary hygiene

Question 2

All patients undergoing surgery need to have preoperative preparation. When physically preparing the patient, the most appropriate action for the nurse to take is which of the following?

a. Leaving all of the patient's jewelry in place
b. Removing the patient's makeup and nail polish
c. Providing the patient with sips of water for a dry mouth
d. Removing the patient's hearing aid before transport to the operating room

Sierray · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

C
The circulating nurse assists the anesthesia provider with endotracheal intubation, calculating blood loss and urinary output, and administering blood. This nurse monitors sterile technique of surgical team members and a safe OR environment. A nurse also assists the surgeon and scrub nurse by operating nonsterile equipment, providing additional instruments and supplies, maintaining accurate and complete documentation, and tracking sponge, needle, and instrument counts. Paralytic ileus is a loss of function of the intestine, which causes abdominal distention. Anesthetic agents slow gastrointestinal functioning. Malignant hyperthermia results from administration of certain anesthetic agents. Alteration in pulmonary hygiene occurs when the postoperative patient does not cough and deep breathe.

Answer to Question 2

B
Jewelry is removed so it can be safeguarded. In addition, swelling may occur postoperatively. Makeup and nail polish are removed so the patient's skin and mucous membranes can be assessed to determine oxygenation, saturation of blood, and application of a pulse oximeter. Patients are to maintain NPO to prevent postoperative GI complications and to prevent aspiration because the gag reflex is suppressed. Although patients need to remove hearing aids, do not have them do this until immediately before surgery; allowing the patient to wear hearing aids will facilitate communication between the patient and health care providers.