Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

A patient with a history of drug abuse and nasal ulcers is admitted to the PACU. What complication should the perianesthesia nurse monitor closely for?

1. Cardiac dysrhythmias

2. Apnea

3. Postural hypotension

4. Somnolence

The correct answer is: Cardiac dysrhythmias

In this scenario, the patient has a history of drug abuse and nasal ulcers, which raises concerns about several complications during recovery in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Cardiac dysrhythmias can be a significant complication to monitor closely in such patients for several reasons. Firstly, individuals with a history of drug abuse may have underlying cardiovascular issues, whether due to the substances used or from associated conditions like malnutrition or infection. These conditions can predispose them to abnormalities in heart rhythm, especially following anesthesia, which can further destabilize cardiovascular function. Furthermore, the anesthetic agents used can also influence cardiac function, leading to alterations in heart rate and rhythm. Anesthesia can induce hypotension, which in conjunction with drug abuse history could lead to impaired heart performance and increase the risk of dysrhythmias. In addition, the presence of nasal ulcers in this patient could be indicative of systemic health issues that may further complicate the patient's overall health status, including electrolyte imbalances that could contribute to dysrhythmias. It’s crucial to monitor cardiac function, as timely intervention for any dysrhythmias can significantly affect patient outcomes. Therefore, a perianesthesia nurse's focus on this complication is vital for ensuring the patient's safety during recovery.