A patient is being evaluated for discharge from the postanesthesia care unit. The patient had a preoperative baseline blood pressure of 124/80. Currently, the patient is moving all four extremities voluntarily, has a respiratory rate of 11, and rouses when her name is called. Which other assessment would mandate that the patient stay in postanesthesia care until more stable?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A pulse oximeter reading of 92% indicates hypoxemia, which would mandate further evaluation and treatment before discharge from the postanesthesia care unit. The other options are not significant enough to require extended stay in the unit.

A Patient Is Being Evaluated for Discharge from the Postanesthesia