NCLEX Practice Questions Perioperative Nursing
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Question 1 of 5.
The postoperative client is transferred from the PACU to the surgical floor. Which action should the nurse implement first?
A. Apply antiembolism hose to the client.
B. Attach the drain to 20 cm suction.
C. Assess the client's vital signs.
D. Listen to the report from the anesthesiologist.
Explanation: Assessing vital signs establishes a baseline post-PACU, per ABCs. Antiembolism hose, drain attachment, and anesthesiologist report follow.
Question 2 of 5.
When informed consent is obtained for surgery, who must explain the surgical procedure to the client?
A. Physician
B. Nurse on the surgical unit
C. Anesthesiologist
D. Operating room nurse
Explanation: The physician is responsible for explaining the surgical procedure to ensure the client understands the risks, benefits, and nature of the surgery, as required for informed consent.
Question 3 of 5.
A client who is about to have surgery asks the nurse why it is necessary to be shaved in that area. The best response for the nurse to provide is that hair is removed to:
A. enhance vision of the surgical field.
B. reduce the chance of infection as the skin is opened.
C. prevent postoperative discomfort from adhesive tape.
D. prevent itching in the postoperative period.
Explanation: Shaving reduces the risk of infection by removing hair that could harbor bacteria near the surgical site, though the practice is debated.
Question 4 of 5.
An adult has returned to the surgical floor following an abdominal cholecystectomy and an uneventful stay in the postanesthesia room. Which nursing action should be the highest priority?
A. Encourage the client to take deep breaths.
B. Ask the client to flex and extend her feet.
C. Assist the client in performing range-of-motion exercises.
D. Irrigate the client's T-tube with normal saline.
Explanation: Encouraging deep breathing prevents respiratory complications, a priority after cholecystectomy due to the incision's proximity to the diaphragm.
Question 5 of 5.
An adult client is admitted to the postanesthesia care unit following an abdominoperineal resection. Which action should the nurse take initially?
A. Assess respiratory function.
B. Monitor IV fluids.
C. Check abdominal and perineal dressings.
D. Apply antithromboembolic stockings.
Explanation: Assessing respiratory function is the initial priority to ensure airway patency and adequate oxygenation post-anesthesia.