A patient is being maintained under neuromuscular blockade-induced paralysis.Analgesia is also being provided.The level of paralysis is being measured by the train-of-four method.The nurse evaluates that the patient's sedation is adequate when which response occurs?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The train-of-four method involves applying four electrical impulses in quick succession and then measuring the resulting muscle responses. If the patient's thumb twitches twice in response to the electrical stimulation, it indicates that there is adequate neuromuscular blockade-induced paralysis, but also enough sedation to prevent discomfort or pain. This is the ideal response for a patient who is undergoing mechanical ventilation or other invasive procedures. Option A suggests that the patient is experiencing discomfort or pain, while options B and D do not specifically address the level of sedation or analgesia.

A Patient Is Being Maintained Under Neuromuscular Blockade-Induced Paralysis