Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

Which intervention should be prioritized for a patient experiencing postoperative nausea?

1. Administering IV fluids

2. Offering oral antiemetics

3. Providing a calming environment

4. Administering narcotics

The correct answer is: Administering IV fluids

When prioritizing interventions for a patient experiencing postoperative nausea, administering IV fluids is crucial for ensuring hydration, especially if the patient is unable to keep oral fluids down. Nausea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can complicate recovery and increase the risk of other complications. IV fluids also help to maintain electrolyte balance, which is important given that fluid loss through vomiting can lead to imbalances. While offering oral antiemetics may help manage the nausea, they may not be effective if the patient is unable to tolerate oral intake. Providing a calming environment is beneficial and may contribute to overall comfort, yet it does not directly address the physiological need for hydration or antiemetic therapy. Similarly, administering narcotics can sometimes exacerbate nausea rather than alleviate it, as they are known side effects. Therefore, focusing first on IV fluids is the most immediate and effective intervention to counteract the effects of nausea, support hydration, and aid in the patient's recovery process.