The nurse is caring for a patient who is slow to awaken following general anesthesia. The patient is breathing spontaneously but is minimally responsive and having difficulty maintaining a patent airway
Which intervention is the most appropriate for the patient to improve oxygenation?
a.
Insert an oral airway.
b.
Lower the head of the bed.
c.
Turn the patient's head to the side.
d.
Monitor the patient's pulse oximetry.
ANS: A
An oral airway will prevent the patient's tongue from falling back and occluding the airway. Lowering the head of the bed will only increase airway occlusion and risk of aspiration. Turning the patient's head to the side will not clear the back of the patient's tongue from the airway. Monitoring the patient's pulse oximetry will not improve oxygenation or clear the airway.
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