CPAN Practice Exam

Free 5 Sample Questions And Answers

Question 1: A patient in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) becomes increasingly restless and has an oxygen saturation of 88%. What should the nurse assess first?

A. Pain level
B. Airway patency and respiratory status
C. Urinary output
D. Surgical dressing

Answer: B. Airway patency and respiratory status

Explanation: Airway assessment is always the highest priority for a patient recovering from anesthesia. Restlessness and decreased oxygen saturation may indicate airway obstruction, hypoventilation, or inadequate oxygenation. The nurse should immediately assess airway patency, respiratory rate, breath sounds, and oxygen saturation while providing appropriate interventions such as repositioning the patient, administering oxygen, or notifying the healthcare provider if necessary. Prompt recognition and management of respiratory compromise help prevent serious complications, including hypoxia, cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure, making airway management a critical component of post-anesthesia nursing care.

Question 2: Which assessment finding indicates that a patient is ready for discharge from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU)?

A. Stable vital signs, controlled pain, and protective reflexes have returned.
B. The patient remains difficult to awaken but has stable blood pressure.
C. Oxygen saturation remains below 90% on room air.
D. Active surgical bleeding is present.

Answer: A. Stable vital signs, controlled pain, and protective reflexes have returned.

Explanation: Before discharge from the PACU, patients should demonstrate stable cardiovascular and respiratory status, adequate pain control, appropriate oxygenation, and the return of protective airway reflexes. They should also have an acceptable level of consciousness and show no signs of significant postoperative complications. Nurses use established discharge criteria to determine whether patients can safely transition to the next phase of recovery. Careful assessment reduces the risk of complications after transfer and helps ensure a safe recovery while promoting positive patient outcomes.

Question 3: A patient reports severe nausea immediately after surgery. Which nursing intervention should be performed first?

A. Encourage the patient to eat a full meal.
B. Assess the patient and administer prescribed antiemetic medication as ordered.
C. Encourage vigorous physical activity.
D. Delay treatment until the symptoms improve naturally.

Answer: B. Assess the patient and administer prescribed antiemetic medication as ordered.

Explanation: Postoperative nausea and vomiting are common after anesthesia and should be addressed promptly to improve patient comfort and prevent complications such as dehydration or aspiration. The nurse should first assess the patient’s symptoms, airway, hydration status, and possible contributing factors before administering prescribed antiemetic medications. Additional supportive measures, including maintaining appropriate positioning and encouraging gradual fluid intake when appropriate, may also be beneficial. Early intervention improves recovery, enhances patient satisfaction, and reduces the likelihood of delayed discharge from the recovery unit.

Question 4: Which nursing action is most important when monitoring a patient recovering from general anesthesia?

A. Assess vital signs, level of consciousness, and respiratory function at regular intervals.
B. Allow the patient to sleep without further assessment.
C. Remove all monitoring equipment immediately after surgery.
D. Delay assessments until the patient requests assistance.

Answer: A. Assess vital signs, level of consciousness, and respiratory function at regular intervals.

Explanation: Continuous monitoring is essential during the immediate postoperative period because patients recovering from anesthesia remain at risk for respiratory depression, cardiovascular instability, and neurological changes. Regular assessment of vital signs, oxygen saturation, airway status, pain level, and level of consciousness allows nurses to identify complications early and intervene promptly. Careful observation supports patient safety, promotes timely recovery, and ensures that any changes in the patient’s condition are recognized before they become life-threatening emergencies.

Question 5: Which factor places a postoperative patient at the greatest risk for respiratory complications?

A. Early ambulation after surgery.
B. Residual effects of anesthesia and opioid pain medications.
C. Adequate hydration throughout recovery.
D. Stable oxygen saturation and normal respiratory rate.

Answer: B. Residual effects of anesthesia and opioid pain medications.

Explanation: Residual anesthetic agents and opioid medications can suppress respiratory drive, reduce airway muscle tone, and increase the risk of airway obstruction or hypoventilation during recovery. Nurses should closely monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, breath sounds, and level of consciousness while encouraging interventions that support ventilation, such as deep breathing exercises and appropriate positioning. Early recognition of respiratory compromise allows timely intervention, reduces the risk of hypoxia, and promotes a safer postoperative recovery for patients receiving anesthesia.