The postanesthesia care unit (PACU)charge nurse notes vital signs on four postoperative clients.Which client should the nurse assess first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory rate is the most critical vital sign for any client who has undergone general anesthesia or moderate sedation,or has received opioid analgesia.This respiratory rate is too low and indicates respiratory depression.The nurse should assess this client first.A blood pressure of 100/50 mm Hg is slightly low and may be within that client's baseline.A pulse of 118 beats/min is slightly fast,which could be due to several causes,including pain and anxiety.A temperature of 96° F is slightly low and the client needs to be warmed.But none of these other vital signs take priority over the respiratory rate.

The Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU)charge Nurse Notes Vital Signs on Four