The nurse is developing a plan of care for the patient undergoing general anesthesia. What is a priority of care for this patient?

Question

A) Encourage clear fluids.
B) Increase oxygen.
C) Reassure the patient that about safety.
D) Maintain regular repositioning.

Answer 1

D
Feedback:
The patient would need to be moved or turned periodically to prevent skin breakdown and the formation of decubitus ulcers if the surgery lasted longer than an hour. Muscle paralysis resulting from the medications used in general anesthesia would prevent the patient from shifting himself or herself to relieve increase pressure. A patient receiving a general anesthetic would be unconscious, require respiratory support, and be connected to a mechanical ventilator to maintain respirations. Increased oxygen would not be indicated unless oxygen levels were less than adequate, and the patient would not receive anything by mouth eliminating option A. Reassurance would not be necessary for the unconscious patient.