A patient in surgery receives a neuromuscular blocking agent as an adjunct to general anesthesia.While in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU),what assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most serious adverse effect of the neuromuscular blocking agents is weakness of the respiratory muscles,which can lead to postoperative hypoxemia.Nausea and confusion are possible adverse effects of these drugs,but they are not as great of concern as respiratory depression.Because these medications decrease muscle contraction,laryngospasm is not a concern.

A Patient in Surgery Receives a Neuromuscular Blocking Agent as an Adjunct