1. The nurse is concerned about the skin integrity of the patient in the intraoperative

phase of surgery. Which action will the nurse take to minimize skin breakdown?

a. Encouraging the patient to bathe before surgery

b. Securing attachments to the operating table with foam padding

c. Periodically adjusting the patient during the surgical procedure

d. Measuring the time a patient is in one position during surgery

ANS: B

Although it may be necessary to place a patient in an unusual position, try to maintain

correct alignment and protect the patient from pressure, abrasion, and other injuries.

Special mattresses, use of foam padding, and attachments to the operating suite table

provide protection for the extremities and bony prominences. Bathing before surgery

helps to decrease the number of microbes on the skin. Periodically adjusting the

patient during the surgical procedure is impractical and can present a safety issue with

regard to maintaining sterility of the field and maintaining an airway. Measuring the

time the patient is in one position may help with monitoring the situation but does not

prevent skin breakdown.

2. The nurse is assessing a postoperative patient with a history of obstructive sleep

apnea for airway obstruction. Which assessment finding will best alert the nurse to

this complication?

a. Drop in pulse oximetry readings

b. Moaning with reports of pain

c. Shallow respirations

d. Disorientation