A patient arrives in the recovery area after general anaesthesia and is snoring loudly. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: B. Assess breathing and reposition the airway
- A. Give the prescribed opioid for incisional pain
- B. Assess breathing and reposition the airway
- C. Offer oral fluids to reduce throat dryness
- D. Inspect the surgical dressing for drainage
Explanation
Snoring after anaesthesia may indicate partial upper-airway obstruction, so airway and breathing take priority over pain, fluids and wound inspection. The nurse should assess respirations and reposition the airway, with further oxygen or emergency support as indicated. Oral fluids are unsafe until protective reflexes return.
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About Perioperative Nursing
Covers preoperative assessment, informed consent, surgical preparation, anaesthesia, intraoperative safety and postoperative recovery. It includes sterile technique, surgical positioning, wound and drain care, pain and nausea management, fluid balance, prevention of infection and recognition of complications such as haemorrhage, atelectasis and shock.
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