ATI RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Questions Related

Review ATI RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Questions related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following an endoscopy with moderate (conscious) sedation. Which of the following assessment findings is the nurse's priority?

  • A. Gag reflex
  • B. Warmth of extremities
  • C. Temperature
  • D. Level of pain
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Gag reflex. The priority assessment for a client post-endoscopy with sedation is to ensure their airway is intact. The presence of a gag reflex indicates the airway protection mechanism is functional, reducing the risk of aspiration. Monitoring warmth of extremities, temperature, and pain level are important but secondary assessments compared to airway patency. Ensuring the client's safety and preventing respiratory compromise take precedence in this situation.