Question

An experienced nurse orients a new nurse to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Which action by the new nurse, if observed by the experienced nurse, indicates that the orientation was successful?

a. The new nurse assists a nauseated patient to a supine position.
b. The new nurse positions an unconscious patient supine with the head elevated.
c. The new nurse turns an unconscious patient to the side upon arrival in the PACU.
d. The new nurse places a patient in the Trendelenburg position when the blood pressure drops.

Answer 1

The correct action indicating successful PACU orientation for a new nurse is the lateral positioning of an unconscious patient to maintain an airway and prevent aspiration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question deals with the orientation of a new nurse in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) and evaluates the understanding of proper positioning techniques for patients. The correct action that indicates the new nurse has successfully been oriented to the PACU by the experienced nurse would be 'c. The new nurse turns an unconscious patient to the side upon arrival in the PACU.' This position helps in maintaining an open airway and reduces the risk of aspiration in an unconscious patient. In contrast, positioning a nauseated patient supine would not be advised due to the risk of aspiration, and while the Trendelenburg position might be used to address hypotension, it is not the primary or initial position of an unconscious patient in the PACU.