A patient is transferred to the PACU and presents with snoring respirations and little chest expansion while breathing. The nurse notes that their oxygen saturations are at 94% and starting to decrease. What is the nurse's first action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should stimulate the patient to take deeper breaths. The patient may be in a relaxed state following anesthesia and the tongue muscle may slip backward, partially occluding the airway. By stimulating the patient, they may awaken slightly and take several deep breaths, reducing snoring and increasing respiratory effort and oxygen saturations. If depressed respirations continue, the nurse should consider repositioning the patient and administering oxygen.

A Patient Is Transferred to the PACU and Presents with Snoring