Author Question: A surgical patient's balanced anesthesia includes the use of vecuronium. What nursing action should ... (Read 17 times)

Destiiny22 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A surgical patient's balanced anesthesia includes the use of vecuronium. What nursing action should the operating room nurses prioritize?

A) Monitoring the patient for signs of increased level of consciousness
B) Assessing and protecting the patient's airway
C) Protecting the patient's skin integrity
D) Monitoring the patient's deep tendon reflexes

Question 2

A 77-year-old patient is admitted for the treatment of a fracture, and the nurse has identified that the patient has a history of heavy alcohol use. At what point should the care team administer pharmacologic treatments for alcohol withdrawal?

A) After skeletal muscle relaxants have taken effect
B) As soon as the patient shows signs of withdrawal
C) After cognitive behavioral therapy has begun
D) After treatment for the patient's acute injuries has been completed

kescobar@64 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Feedback:
The maintenance of the patient's airway and respiratory function following the administration of neuromuscular blocking agents such as vecuronium is the most important nursing implication. The importance of airway protection supersedes that of DTR assessment, assessing LOC, and maintaining skin integrity, though each of these is a valid consideration.

Answer to Question 2

B
Feedback:
Treatment with chlordiazepoxide for alcohol withdrawal should begin as soon as the clinician identifies that the patient needs it. It is unsafe to delay treatment of withdrawal. Muscle relaxants are not indicated in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.