Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

When a 35-year-old patient in the PACU expresses anxiety about not having their mother with them, how should the perianesthesia nurse respond?

1. Informs the patient that visitation is prohibited

2. Reassures the patient and administers an analgesic

3. Allows a brief visit at a time appropriate for all

4. Sedates the patient due to postanesthetic confusion

The correct answer is: Allows a brief visit at a time appropriate for all

Allowing a brief visit at a time appropriate for all is considered the proper approach in this situation because it demonstrates sensitivity to the patient's emotional state and acknowledges their need for support. Patients in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) can often feel vulnerable and anxious due to the effects of anesthesia and the unfamiliar environment they find themselves in. When a patient expresses anxiety, it's essential to validate their feelings and provide comfort. Facilitating a visit from a loved one, like the patient's mother, can help alleviate anxiety and promote emotional well-being, assuming it does not interfere with the patient's medical care and that the healthcare team deems it appropriate. This balance of addressing psychological needs while ensuring safety is crucial in post-anesthetic care. In contrast, suggesting that visitation is prohibited does not address the patient's emotional need and may exacerbate their anxiety. Simply administering an analgesic without further reassurance or addressing the emotional concern may overlook the psychological aspect of the patient's distress. Sedating the patient may further complicate their condition and not provide the comfort or reassurance they are looking for.