Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

In situations where a surgical complication is suspected, the priority for a PACU nurse is to act swiftly and decisively to ensure patient safety. Notifying the physician immediately is essential because they are responsible for directing medical interventions and making critical decisions regarding the patient's care. Quick communication allows for prompt assessment and treatment, which can be crucial in mitigating the effects of the complication.

Performing necessary interventions alongside notifying the physician is also vital. This dual approach ensures that immediate care is rendered while the physician is being informed of the situation. For example, if the complication involves a sudden drop in blood pressure, the nurse can initiate interventions, such as administering fluids or adjusting oxygen, while waiting for further directives from the physician.

This course of action contrasts significantly with options like waiting for stabilization or simply documenting the observation, as doing so could result in delayed treatment and potentially exacerbate the patient's condition. Consulting a nurse manager is also not appropriate in this context, as the immediate responsibility lies with the nurse to address potential complications directly with the physician. Prompt recognition and response can make a critical difference in patient outcomes in the PACU setting.