Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

What environment should patients with active tuberculosis be provided for recovery after surgery?

1. Remain in the OR under the care of the circulating nurse

2. Be provided a separate negative-pressure isolation room in PACU

3. Be provided an appropriately sized particulate mask

4. Be recovered in an isolation room in the nursing unit

The correct answer is: Be provided a separate negative-pressure isolation room in PACU

Patients with active tuberculosis require a specific environment to reduce the risk of airborne transmission to others and to facilitate their recovery in a safe setting. A separate negative-pressure isolation room in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is optimal because the negative pressure system ensures that air within the room does not escape to adjacent areas, effectively containing any infectious particles. This control of airflow is critical in preventing the spread of tuberculosis, which is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Providing such a specialized recovery space helps protect healthcare workers, patients, and visitors from exposure. Additionally, isolating the patient in this manner allows for close monitoring while minimizing the risk of transmission. While masks and other forms of isolation are important in some contexts, the combination of negative pressure isolation effectively addresses both safety and recovery needs for patients with active tuberculosis, making it the most suitable option in this scenario.