Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CPAN Practice Questions and Study Guide

A critical nursing action when a patient exhibits excessive drowsiness in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is to continue to assess vital signs and neurologic status. This approach is essential for several reasons. First, excessive drowsiness can be indicative of a range of issues, including respiratory depression, inadequate anesthesia recovery, or complications such as hypoxia or adverse reactions to medications.

By closely monitoring vital signs, including respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, the nurse can detect any abnormalities that may require immediate intervention. Additionally, assessing neurological status, which includes evaluating responsiveness and orientation, helps to determine the patient's level of consciousness and their overall neurological function.

Prompt and thorough assessment allows the nurse to gather important data about the patient's current condition, which is necessary for guiding further nursing interventions and ensuring patient safety. This assessment also aids in deciding whether additional medical intervention is necessary, such as administering oxygen or supporting the airway if breathing is compromised, rather than hastily transferring the patient or administering medications without understanding the underlying cause of the symptoms.