Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Related

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During a surgical procedure, the nurse notices a sudden decrease in the patient's oxygen saturation on the monitor. What immediate action should the nurse take?

  • A. Inform the surgeon and anesthesiologist
  • B. Increase the flow rate of oxygen
  • C. Check the endotracheal tube placement
  • D. Assess the patient's respiratory status
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct immediate action is to inform the surgeon and anesthesiologist (Choice A) because a sudden decrease in oxygen saturation during surgery is a critical situation that requires prompt attention from the entire surgical team. The surgeon and anesthesiologist need to be made aware of the situation so that they can assess the patient's condition and make any necessary adjustments to the surgical procedure or anesthesia delivery. Increasing the flow rate of oxygen (Choice B) may help temporarily but does not address the underlying cause of the oxygen desaturation. Checking the endotracheal tube placement (Choice C) is important but may not be the immediate priority in this critical situation. Assessing the patient's respiratory status (Choice D) is important but should be done after informing the surgeon and anesthesiologist to ensure coordinated and timely interventions.