A nurse is caring for an 82-year-old woman in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). The woman begins to awaken and responds to her name but is confused, restless, and agitated. The nurse is aware that:
A) Postoperative confusion indicates an oxygen problem or possibly a stroke during surgery.
B) Confusion, restlessness, and agitation are normal postoperative findings and will diminish in time.
C) Postoperative confusion is common in the elderly, but it could also indicate a significant blood loss.
D) Confusion, restlessness, and agitation indicate inadequate pain management; analgesics will help.
Ans: C
Feedback: Postoperative confusion is common in the elderly, but it could also indicate blood loss and the potential for hypovolemic shock; it is a critical symptom for the nurse to identify. Option A is a good answer, postoperative confusion is an indication of an oxygen problem or possibly a stroke during surgery, but blood loss is more likely. Option B is incorrect; restlessness and agitation are never normal postoperative findings. Option D is incorrect; confusion, restless, and agitation may indicate inadequate pain management, but pain could be assessed by report of pain, splinting of the affected area, and vital signs.
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