Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

During assessment in the PACU, what vital sign abnormality is crucial in identifying postoperative complications?

1. Heart rate irregularities

2. Blood pressure fluctuations

3. Respiratory rate alterations

4. Temperature elevation

The correct answer is: Blood pressure fluctuations

Blood pressure fluctuations are crucial in identifying postoperative complications because they can indicate a range of issues that may arise after surgery. Significant changes in blood pressure, whether hypotension or hypertension, can suggest complications such as bleeding, fluid volume deficits, or cardiovascular instability. In the postoperative setting, maintaining hemodynamic stability is vital for patient safety. Blood pressure provides essential information about the patient's fluid status and cardiac function. Sudden drops in blood pressure may signal hemorrhage or septic shock, while increases could indicate pain, anxiety, or fluid overload. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure consistently and accurately is key to early detection of complications, allowing for timely intervention and management. While heart rate irregularities, respiratory rate alterations, and temperature elevation are also important indicators of postoperative status and can signify complications, blood pressure changes hold immediate implications for the patient’s hemodynamic status and overall stability.