Our team kept together likely NMC Exams Questions and answers for you.
1. Which of the following is a common complication after surgery that surgical nurses should monitor for?
A. Hypothermia
B. Hyperthermia
C. Hypertension
D. Hypoglycemia
Answer: A. Hypothermia
2. During the preoperative phase, the surgical nurse’s responsibility includes:
A. Monitoring the patient’s pain level
B. Ensuring informed consent is obtained
C. Administering antibiotics post-surgery
D. Assisting with wound dressing changes
Answer: B. Ensuring informed consent is obtained
3. What type of anesthesia involves the injection of local anesthetic agent to block sensation in a specific area?
A. General anesthesia
B. Regional anesthesia
C. Sedation anesthesia
D. Topical anesthesia
Answer: B. Regional anesthesia
4. Which surgical wound classification involves a clean-contaminated wound with minimal risk of infection?
A. Class I
B. Class II
C. Class III
D. Class IV
Answer: B. Class II
5. Which post-operative complication should the surgical nurse closely monitor in a patient who underwent abdominal surgery?
A. Delirium
B. Atelectasis
C. Cystitis
D. Osteomyelitis
Answer: B. Atelectasis
6. What is the primary purpose of applying anti-embolism stockings to a post-operative patient?
A. To prevent skin breakdown
B. To reduce post-operative pain
C. To promote wound healing
D. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Answer: D. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
7. When positioning a post-operative patient in bed, what is the nurse’s priority to prevent complications?
A. Elevating the head of the bed
B. Placing a pillow under the knees
C. Using a donut-shaped cushion
D.Positioning the patient in a lateral recumbent position
Answer: B. Placing a pillow under the knees
8. Which nursing intervention helps prevent surgical site infections in post-operative patients?
A. Encouraging the patient to touch the incision gently
B. Applying adhesive tapes directly to the incision
C. Changing the dressing daily or as per healthcare provider’s orders
D. Removing sutures and staples immediately after surgery
Answer: C. Changing the dressing daily or as per healthcare provider’s orders
9. The surgical nurse should educate the patient about which aspect of post-operative care to promote early mobilization?
A. Importance of bed rest
B. Use of a bedpan for all bathroom needs
C. Proper use of a walker or crutches
D. Minimizing fluid intake to prevent bathroom trips
Answer: C. Proper use of a walker or crutches
10. What should the surgical nurse do to prevent wound dehiscence in a post-operative patient?
A. Encourage the patient to cough and deep breathe frequently
B. Apply a tight dressing to the incision site
C. Instruct the patient to bend at the waist
D. Restrict the patient’s fluid intake
Answer: A. Encourage the patient to cough and deep breathe frequently
11. During the immediate post-operative period, the surgical nurse should prioritize:
A. Administering pain medications
B. Providing a well-balanced meal
C. Assisting with range-of-motion exercises
D. Promoting the patient’s sense of well-being
Answer: A. Administering pain medications
12. Which of the following is a common post-operative complication affecting the gastrointestinal system?
A. Pneumonia
B. Urinary tract infection
C. Constipation
D. Hypertension
Answer: C. Constipation
13. The surgical nurse should teach the patient about preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) by:
A. Avoiding physical activity and bed rest
B. Maintaining a low-calorie diet
C. Elevating the legs while sitting or lying down
D. Using anti-embolism stockings and performing leg exercises
Answer: D. Using anti-embolism stockings and performing leg exercises
14. During the immediate post-operative period, the nurse should monitor the patient’s intake and output to:
A. Ensure the patient is eating a balanced diet
B. Identify potential fluid and electrolyte imbalances
C. Prevent urinary tract infections
D. Document the patient’s urine color and clarity
Answer: B. Identify potential fluid and electrolyte imbalances
15. The surgical nurse should assess for signs of wound infection, such as:
A. Clear serous drainage from the incision
B. Mild redness and swelling around the incision
C. Slight warmth at the surgical site
D. Pus-like, foul-smelling discharge from the incision
Answer: D. Pus-like, foul-smelling discharge from the incision
16. What is the primary purpose of post-operative hand hygiene for both the patient and healthcare providers?
A. To prevent wound infection
B. To promote wound healing
C. To relieve post-operative pain
D. To increase blood circulation
Answer: A. To prevent wound infection
17. When positioning a post-operative patient in bed, what is the nurse’s priority to prevent pressure ulcers?
A. Repositioning the patient every 4 hours
B. Applying a thick layer of lotion to bony prominences
C. Keeping the patient in a supine position at all times
D. Elevating the head of the bed to a 90-degree angle
Answer: A. Repositioning the patient every 4 hours
18. Which of the following is an essential nursing intervention to prevent post-operative pneumonia in a patient who underwent abdominal surgery?
A. Encouraging the patient to use a spirometer
B. Restricting fluid intake to prevent coughing
C. Applying ice packs to the surgical site
D. Assisting the patient to perform sit-ups
Answer: A. Encouraging the patient to use a spirometer
19. The surgical nurse should educate the patient about early ambulation to prevent:
A. Surgical site infection
B. Blood clots in the legs
C. Urinary retention
D. Post-operative nausea and vomiting
Answer: B. Blood clots in the legs
20. Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention for a post-operative patient experiencing pain?
A. Administering pain medications as prescribed
B. Encouraging the patient to ambulate frequently
C. Providing distraction techniques to divert the patient’s attention from pain
D. Restricting the patient’s fluid intake to prevent potential complications
Answer: A. Administering pain medications as prescribed
21. During the immediate post-operative period, which vital sign requires close monitoring by the surgical nurse?
A. Temperature
B. Heart rate
C. Respiratory rate
D. Blood pressure
Answer: C. Respiratory rate
22. Which type of wound healing occurs in a surgical incision closed with sutures or staples?
A. Primary intention
B. Secondary intention
C. Tertiary intention
D. Quaternary intention
Answer: A. Primary intention
23. When should the surgical nurse remove the dressing covering a post-operative wound?
A. Immediately after surgery to assess the wound
B. After 24 hours to promote wound healing
C. As soon as the patient expresses discomfort
D. As per the healthcare provider’s orders and surgical protocol
Answer: D. As per the healthcare provider’s orders and surgical protocol
24. What is the primary purpose of deep breathing exercises for a post-operative patient?
A. To prevent wound infection
B. To promote lung expansion and prevent respiratory complications
C. To relieve pain and discomfort
D. To increase blood circulation to the extremities
Answer: B. To promote lung expansion and prevent respiratory complications.
25. Which of the following is a common post-operative complication related to immobility?
A. Diarrhea
B. Constipation
C. Hypertension
D. Hyperglycemia
Answer: B. Constipation
26. The surgical nurse should monitor the patient for signs of wound infection, such as:
A. Decreased drainage from the wound
B. Pale and cool skin around the incision
C. Redness, warmth, and swelling at the wound site
D. Decreased pain at the incision site
Answer: C. Redness, warmth, and swelling at the wound site
27. Before surgery, the nurse prepares the patient by ensuring:
A. Adequate fluid intake before surgery
B. NPO status (no food or drink) after midnight
C. Application of makeup and nail polish
D. Wearing tight-fitting clothing
Answer: B. NPO status (no food or drink) after midnight
28. In the immediate post-operative period, the nurse must prioritize:
A. Ambulating the patient to promote early mobility
B. Providing adequate pain relief and comfort
C. Documenting the surgical procedure in detail
D. Administering antibiotics to prevent infection
Answer: B. Providing adequate pain relief and comfort
29. What is the primary purpose of the surgical time-out process?
A. To ensure the patient is correctly positioned on the operating table
B. To confirm the patient’s identity and surgical site
C. To discuss the surgical procedure with the anesthesia team
D. To prepare the surgical instruments for the procedure
Answer: B. To confirm the patient’s identity and surgical site
30. In which surgical position is the patient lying on their back with head and shoulder elevated?
A. Supine
B. Prone
C. Lithotomy
D. Trendelenburg
Answer: A. Supine
31. The surgical nurse should monitor the patient for signs of hypovolemia, such as:
A. Increased urine output
B. Hypertension
C. Bradycardia
D. Tachypnea
Answer: D. Tachypnea
32. What is the appropriate action for the surgical nurse if a patient develops an allergic reaction to anesthetic drugs?
A. Administer an additional dose of the same anesthetic drug
B. Notify the anesthesia provider immediately
C. Discontinue the surgery and postpone it to another day
D. Increase the flow rate of the anesthesia gases
Answer: B. Notify the anesthesia provider immediately
33. Which surgical wound classification involves a contaminated wound with purulent drainage?
A. Class I
B. Class II
C. Class III
D. Class IV
Answer: C. Class III
34. The surgical nurse must confirm the patient’s informed consent before the surgery by:
A. Signing the consent form on behalf of the patient
B. Verifying that the patient understands the risks and benefits of the surgery
C. Having the surgeon sign the consent form
D. Asking the patient’s family member to give consent
Answer: B. Verifying that the patient understands the risks and benefits of the surgery
35. When transporting a post-operative patient, the nurse should:
A. Place the patient in a Trendelenburg position
B. Use a stretcher with raised side rails
C. Allow the patient to walk independently to the destination
D. Administer pain medication before transport
Answer: D. Administer pain medication before transport
36. The surgical nurse should closely monitor the patient for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), such as:
A. Elevated blood pressure
B. Cyanosis of the extremities
C. Positive Homans’ sign
D. Excessive diuresis
Answer: C. Positive Homans’ sign
37. What is the primary purpose of using surgical aseptic technique during a procedure?
A. To maintain a sterile environment in the operating room
B. To ensure the patient is fully anesthetized
C. To minimize the length of the surgical procedure
D. To prevent post-operative pain
Answer: A. To maintain a sterile environment in the operating room
38. The nurse should monitor the surgical patient’s fluid balance by assessing:
A. Blood glucose levels
B. Serum electrolyte levels
C. Urine output
D. Respiratory rate
Answer: C. Urine output
39. To prevent post-operative complications, the nurse should encourage the patient to:
A. Cough and deep breathe regularly
B. Keep the surgical incision dry and uncovered
C. Restrict fluid intake to prevent urinary incontinence
D. Keep the head of the bed flat to promote rest
Answer: A. Cough and deep breathe regularly
40. What is the purpose of preoperative teaching for a surgical patient?
A. To provide pain management options after surgery
B. To explain the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure
C. To teach the patient post-operative exercises
D. To administer preoperative medications
Answer: B. To explain the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure
41. During the immediate post-operative period, which nursing intervention is essential to prevent surgical site infections?
A. Encouraging the patient to perform deep breathing exercises
B. Applying ice packs to the surgical site
C. Keeping the patient on strict bed rest
D. Administering antibiotics as prophylaxis
Answer: D. Administering antibiotics as prophylaxis
42. Which position is often recommended for a patient recovering from abdominal surgery to promote healing and reduce strain on the incision?
A. Supine position
B. Trendelenburg position
C. Prone position
D. Semi-Fowler’s position
Answer: D. Semi-Fowler’s position
43. What should the nurse do if a patient experiences post-operative nausea and vomiting?
A. Administer more pain medications
B. Elevate the head of the bed
C. Encourage the patient to consume solid foods
D. Provide antiemetic medications as prescribed
Answer: D. Provide antiemetic medications as prescribed
44. Which type of anesthesia involves injecting a local anesthetic into a specific area of the body for a minor surgical procedure?
A. General anesthesia
B. Spinal anesthesia
C. Epidural anesthesia
D. Regional anesthesia
Answer: D. Regional anesthesia
45. Which of the following is a common post-operative complication related to inadequate respiratory function?
A. Hypotension
B. Hypothermia
C. Hypoxia
D. Hypoglycemia
Answer: C. Hypoxia
46. What is the purpose of using sequential compression devices (SCDs) for a post-operative patient?
A. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
B. To promote wound healing
C. To improve respiratory function
D. To reduce post-operative pain
Answer: A. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
47. What is the primary purpose of a surgical time-out?
A. To provide the patient with preoperative instructions
B. To double-check the patient’s identity and surgical site
C. To administer anesthesia
D. To perform a final surgical count of instruments
Answer: B. To double-check the patient’s identity and surgical site
48. What is the primary goal of the post-operative phase of nursing care?
A. Preventing surgical site infection
B. Ensuring patient comfort and pain management
C. Promoting wound healing
D. Monitoring vital signs
Answer: B. Ensuring patient comfort and pain management
49. Which of the following signs may indicate a potential complication in a post-operative patient?
A. Mild swelling around the incision site
B. Redness and warmth at the surgical site
C. Drainage of clear serous fluid from the incision
D. Sudden onset of fever and increased pain
Answer: D. Sudden onset of fever and increased pain
50. Which nursing intervention is essential to prevent post-operative atelectasis?
A. Frequent turning and repositioning of the patient
B. Encouraging the patient to perform incentive spirometry exercises
C. Limiting fluid intake to reduce the risk of aspiration
D. Applying cold packs to the surgical site
Answer: B. Encouraging the patient to perform incentive spirometry exercises
51. Which of the following statements about surgical asepsis is correct?
A. Surgical asepsis involves the use of antiseptics on the skin.
B. It is not necessary to maintain a sterile field during surgery.
C. Sterile gloves should be worn by all healthcare providers in the operating room.
D. Only the immediate surgical area needs to be sterile.
Answer: D. Only the immediate surgical area needs to be sterile.
52. How often should the surgical nurse assess the patient’s surgical wound?
A. Every 2 hours
B. Once a day
C. Every 4 hours
D. Before and after meals
Answer: C. Every 4 hours
53. What is the primary purpose of administering preoperative antibiotics?
A. To prevent post-operative nausea and vomiting
B. To promote wound healing
C. To prevent surgical site infections
D. To relieve post-operative pain
Answer: C. To prevent surgical site infections
54. Which nursing intervention is essential to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a post-operative patient?
A. Elevating the legs above heart level
B. Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises
C. Applying a heating pad to the lower extremities
D. Restricting fluid intake to reduce swelling
Answer: B. Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises
55. Which of the following is a key responsibility of the surgical nurse during the preoperative phase?
A. Performing post-operative assessments
B. Preparing the surgical room
C. Administering anesthesia
D. Discharging the patient after surgery
Answer: B. Preparing the surgical room
56. Which type of anesthesia involves numbing only a specific area of the body?
A. General anesthesia
B. Regional anesthesia
C. Local anesthesia
D. Conscious sedation
Answer: C. Local anesthesia
57. During surgery, which member of the surgical team is responsible for passing surgical instruments to the surgeon?
A. Anesthesiologist
B. Circulating nurse
C. Scrub nurse
D. Surgical technologist
Answer: C. Scrub nurse
58. A surgical patient is experiencing a drop in blood pressure and signs of shock. What is the nurse’s immediate action?
A. Elevate the patient’s legs
B. Administer pain medication
C. Notify the healthcare provider
D. Apply a warm compress
Answer: C. Notify the healthcare provider
59. Which surgical complication involves the protrusion of an organ through an incision site?
A. Dehiscence
B. Evisceration
C. Hematoma
D. Seroma
Answer: B. Evisceration
60. Which of the following is a common post-operative nursing intervention to prevent venous thromboembolism?
A. Encouraging deep vein thrombosis (DVT) exercises
B. Applying ice packs to the surgical site
C. Administering antibiotics prophylactically
D. Providing frequent oral care
Answer: A. Encouraging deep vein thrombosis (DVT) exercises
61. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent surgical site infections?
A. Restricting fluid intake post-operatively
B. Changing the surgical dressing only when wet
C. Encouraging the patient to cough and deep breathe
D. Practicing proper hand hygiene
Answer: D. Practicing proper hand hygiene
62. Which of the following is a sign of potential respiratory complications in a post-operative patient?
A. Mild incisional pain
B. Oxygen saturation of 99%
C. Absent breath sounds on one side of the chest
D. Elevated body temperature
Answer: C. Absent breath sounds on one side of the chest
63. What is the primary purpose of a surgical time-out?
A. To administer anesthesia
B. To document the patient’s history
C. To confirm the correct surgical site and procedure
D. To obtain informed consent from the patient
Answer: C. To confirm the correct surgical site and procedure
64. Which of the following factors increases a patient’s risk of surgical complications?
A. Young age
B. Regular exercise routine
C. Controlled blood pressure
D. Chronic medical conditions
Answer: D. Chronic medical conditions
65. What is the recommended position for a patient after a supratentorial craniotomy?
A. Trendelenburg position
B. High Fowler’s position
C. Lateral decubitus position
D. Reverse Trendelenburg position
Answer: B. High Fowler’s position
66. Which nursing intervention is essential to prevent hypothermia in a surgical patient?
A. Maintaining a cool room temperature
B. Providing warm blankets
C. Limiting the patient’s fluid intake
D. Encouraging frequent ambulation
Answer: B. Providing warm blankets
67. Which of the following is a common complication of prolonged immobility in a post-operative patient?
A. Hypertension
B. Hypoglycemia
C. Pressure ulcers
D. Elevated body temperature
Answer: C. Pressure ulcers
68. What is the primary purpose of a Jackson-Pratt drain?
A. To deliver oxygen to the surgical site
B. To measure urine output
C. To remove excess fluid and prevent seroma formation
D. To administer intravenous medications
Answer: C. To remove excess fluid and prevent seroma formation
69. Which of the following is a common post-operative complication in elderly patients?
A. Hypertension
B. Hyperglycemia
C. Hypothermia
D. Delirium
Answer: D. Delirium
70. What is the primary purpose of applying anti-embolism stockings to a post-operative patient?
A. To prevent wound infection
B. To promote venous return and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
C. To reduce pain and swelling
D. To immobilize the surgical site
Answer: B. To promote venous return and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
71. During the post-operative period, which symptom should the nurse prioritize as potentially life-threatening?
A. Mild incisional pain
B. Dry mouth
C. Dyspnea and tachycardia
D. Feeling slightly lightheaded
Answer: C. Dyspnea and tachycardia
72. Which of the following is a common post-operative nursing intervention to promote wound healing?
A. Applying hydrogen peroxide to the incision site
B. Keeping the incision site exposed to air
C. Changing the surgical dressing daily
D. Keeping the incision site clean and dry
Answer: D. Keeping the incision site clean and dry
73. What is the primary purpose of using a trochanter roll for a post-operative patient in a supine position?
A. To prevent pressure ulcers on the heels
B. To maintain proper alignment of the spine
C. To prevent internal rotation of the hips
D. To promote proper blood circulation
Answer: C. To prevent internal rotation of the hips
74. Which post-operative complication involves a collection of blood at the surgical site?
A. Seroma
B. Hematoma
C. Dehiscence
D. Fistula
Answer: B. Hematoma
75. Which of the following is a common pre-operative nursing intervention to reduce the risk of surgical site infection?
A. Encouraging the patient to cough and deep breathe
B. Administering prophylactic antibiotics as ordered
C. Restricting oral fluid intake
D. Ambulating the patient for extended periods
Answer: B. Administering prophylactic antibiotics as ordered
strong>76. What is the primary purpose of surgical scrubbing and hand hygiene for the surgical team?
A. Preventing the spread of infections between team members
B. Removing all visible dirt and debris from the hands
C. Reducing the risk of wound contamination
D. Keeping the hands moisturized during the procedure
Answer: C. Reducing the risk of wound contamination
77. During the immediate post-operative period, why is monitoring the patient’s level of consciousness critical?
A. To ensure proper pain management
B. To identify potential complications such as delirium
C. To assess the effectiveness of anesthesia
D. To initiate early ambulation
Answer: B. To identify potential complications such as delirium
78. What is the primary purpose of using surgical drapes during an operation?
A. To keep the operating room sterile
B. To provide comfort to the patient
C. To absorb excess blood and fluids
D. To maintain the patient’s body temperature
Answer: A. To keep the operating room sterile
79. Which of the following is a common post-operative nursing intervention to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE)?
A. Elevating the head of the bed to a 30-degree angle
B. Applying cold packs to the surgical site
C. Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises
D. Administering antiemetic medications
Answer: C. Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises
80. What should the surgical nurse do if the patient develops a sudden, uncontrolled cough during the procedure?
A. Document the incident and continue with the surgery
B. Administer cough suppressants as needed
C. Notify the surgeon and anesthesia provider immediately
D. Encourage the patient to take deep breaths to control the coughing
Answer: C. Notify the surgeon and anesthesia provider immediately
81. Which post-operative complication should the surgical nurse closely monitor for in a patient who underwent abdominal surgery?
A. Pulmonary embolism
B. Urinary tract infection
C. Decubitus ulcers
D. Paralytic ileus
Answer: D. Paralytic ileus
82. In which position should the surgical nurse place the patient undergoing spinal surgery to prevent complications?
A. Supine with legs elevated
B. Prone with head turned to one side
C. Semi-Fowler’s with knees bent
D. Lateral on the unaffected side
Answer: B. Prone with head turned to one side
83. Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate for a patient at risk of surgical wound dehiscence?
A. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing exercises
B. Applying a heating pad to the wound site
C. Providing wound care and dressing changes as ordered
D. Encouraging early ambulation to promote wound healing
Answer: C. Providing wound care and dressing changes as ordered
84. What is the primary purpose of using an incentive spirometer for a post-operative patient?
A. To prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
B. To assess lung capacity and function
C. To promote optimal wound healing
D. To prevent respiratory complications and atelectasis
Answer: D. To prevent respiratory complications and atelectasis
85. Which of the following nursing interventions is essential for preventing post-operative surgical site infections?
A. Administering pre-operative prophylactic antibiotics
B. Limiting the patient’s fluid intake before surgery
C. Applying cold packs to the surgical site
D. Performing post-operative wound cultures
Answer: A. Administering pre-operative prophylactic antibiotics
86. What should the surgical nurse do if the patient’s surgical wound starts to bleed excessively post-operatively?
A. Apply pressure to the wound and elevate the affected limb
B. Administer anticoagulant medications
C. Increase the patient’s fluid intake to promote clotting
D. Place the patient in a Trendelenburg position
Answer: A. Apply pressure to the wound and elevate the affected limb
87. What is the primary purpose of using a trochanter roll for a post-operative patient in a supine position?
A. To prevent hip dislocation
B. To promote wound healing
C. To maintain proper body alignment
D. To provide support for the lower back
Answer: A. To prevent hip dislocation
88. Why is it important for the surgical nurse to maintain a strict aseptic technique during wound care?
A. To prevent cross-contamination and infection
B. To minimize patient discomfort during wound cleaning
C. To promote rapid wound healing
D. To assess the patient’s wound for signs of dehiscence
Answer: A. To prevent cross-contamination and infection
89. Which of the following signs may indicate a patient’s surgical wound is infected?
A. Mild redness and swelling around the incision
B. Slight warmth at the surgical site
C. Clear serous drainage
D. Purulent discharge with foul odor
Answer: D. Purulent discharge with foul odor
90. What should the surgical nurse do if a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction to an anesthesia agent?
A. Administer diphenhydramine to relieve symptoms
B. Notify the anesthesia provider and surgeon immediately
C. Encourage the patient to take deep breaths to manage anxiety
D. Administer epinephrine to reverse the reaction
Answer: B. Notify the anesthesia provider and surgeon immediately
91. Which of the following is a nursing intervention to prevent post-operative atelectasis in a patient after abdominal surgery?
A. Encouraging the patient to perform incentive spirometry
B. Keeping the patient’s legs elevated to promote circulation
C. Administering opioids frequently for pain management
D. Limiting the patient’s fluid intake to avoid urinary retention
Answer: A. Encouraging the patient to perform incentive spirometry
92. Why is it essential for the surgical nurse to monitor the patient’s urine output frequently during the post-operative period?
A. To assess the patient’s fluid balance and kidney function
B. To prevent urinary tract infections
C. To evaluate the effectiveness of post-operative pain management
D. To ensure the patient is not experiencing urinary retention
Answer: A. To assess the patient’s fluid balance and kidney function
93. Which of the following factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing a surgical site infection (SSI)?
A. Obesity and diabetes mellitus
B. A history of hypertension
C. Mild anemia
D. Frequent handwashing by healthcare providers
Answer: A. Obesity and diabetes mellitus
94. What should the surgical nurse do if the patient develops signs of respiratory distress in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU)?
A. Place the patient in a supine position and elevate the legs
B. Administer oxygen and notify the healthcare provider immediately
C. Encourage the patient to perform deep breathing exercises
D. Administer opioid analgesics to manage pain
Answer: B. Administer oxygen and notify the healthcare provider immediately
95. Â Which of the following is an essential step in the preoperative phase of surgical nursing?
(a) Administering postoperative medications.
(b) Preparing the patient for surgery.
(c) Assessing the patient’s recovery after surgery.
(d) Documenting postoperative complications.
Answer: (b) Preparing the patient for surgery.
96. During the intraoperative phase of surgery, the nurse’s primary responsibility is:
(a) Postoperative wound care.
(b) Providing emotional support to the patient’s family.
(c) Ensuring the operating room’s sterility.
(d) Monitoring the patient’s vital signs and anesthesia.
Answer: (d) Monitoring the patient’s vital signs and anesthesia.
97. What is the primary purpose of performing a surgical time-out before the procedure?
(a) To allow the surgical team to take a break.
(b) To verify the patient’s identity and surgical site.
(c) To discuss the latest surgical techniques.
(d) To schedule additional surgical procedures.
Answer: (b) To verify the patient’s identity and surgical site.
98. A postoperative patient develops a fever, increased heart rate, and purulent drainage from the surgical wound. These signs are most suggestive of:
(a) Normal healing process.
(b) An allergic reaction to anesthesia.
(c) Wound infection.
(d) Surgical site dehiscence.
Answer:(c) Wound infection.
99. When educating a patient about postoperative care, which of the following instructions is crucial to preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
(a) Encouraging ambulation and leg exercises.
(b) Reducing fluid intake to avoid excessive urination.
(c) Avoiding leg elevation to minimize swelling.
(d) Applying warm compresses to the surgical site.
Answer: (a) Encouraging ambulation and leg exercises.
100. Which of the following is a primary goal of surgical nursing?
- A. Administering medications
- B. Managing post-operative pain
- C. Assisting with diagnostic tests
- D. Educating patients about nutrition
Answer: B. Managing post-operative pain
101. What is the role of a surgical nurse during the intraoperative phase?
A. Monitoring the patient’s vital signs
B. Preparing the surgical instruments
C. Providing post-operative care
D. Assessing the patient’s medical history
Answer: A. Monitoring the patient’s vital signs
102. The nurse identifies a surgical patient’s temperature is 38.5°C (101.3°F) two days post-operation. What could this indicate?
A. Normal post-operative response
B. Infection or inflammation
C. Hypothermia
D. Surgical site bleeding
Answer: B. Infection or inflammation
103. When caring for a patient with a surgical wound, which of the following is a sign of wound infection?
A. Mild redness and swelling around the incision
B. Slight warmth at the surgical site
C. Clear serous drainage
D. Pus-like, foul-smelling discharge
Answer: D. Pus-like, foul-smelling discharge
