Question

A clinic nurse is conducting a preoperative interview with an adult patient who will soon be

scheduled to undergo cardiac surgery. What interview question most directly addresses the
patient's safety?
A) ìWhat prescription and nonprescription medications do you currently take?î
B) ìHave you previously been admitted to the hospital, either for surgery or for medical treatment?î
C) ìHow long do you expect to be at home recovering after your surgery?î
D) ìWould you say that you tend to eat a fairly healthy diet?î

Answer 1

The question about current prescription and nonprescription medications is the most direct way to address a patient's safety before cardiac surgery to avoid drug interactions and complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

This question is crucial because it helps the medical team to assess any potential risks of medication interactions or complications during surgery. It is important for the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional to review the patient’s medications to manage and anticipate critical events related to drug interactions, particularly with the anesthesia and postoperative care.

Additionally, it is part of ensuring that the nursing staff have accounted for all necessary equipment and taken into consideration any specifics regarding the patient's health that could affect sterility or equipment availability. Identifying all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, allows the healthcare team to confirm no adverse effects occur and that the patient's safety is maintained throughout the perioperative period.