Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 9th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 9th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

Which of the following is a discharge criterion from the PACU for a patient following surgery?

  • A. Oxygen saturation above 90%
  • B. IV narcotics given less than 15 minutes ago
  • C. Oxygen saturation below 90%
  • D. IV narcotics given less than 30 minutes ago
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Oxygen saturation above 90%. This is a discharge criterion because adequate oxygen saturation indicates the patient is breathing well and there is no immediate respiratory compromise. Oxygen saturation below 90% (choice C) would indicate hypoxemia and would not be safe for discharge. IV narcotics given less than 15 minutes ago (choice B) can still be in effect and may impair the patient's ability to function post-surgery. IV narcotics given less than 30 minutes ago (choice D) is a longer timeframe but still not ideal for discharge as the effects of the narcotics may not have fully worn off.