Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

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Study for the Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Test. Benefit from detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations to aid your preparation. Ace your exam with confidence!

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What is an effective strategy to reduce anxiety for patients in the pre-anesthesia phase?

  1. Providing clear instructions

  2. Offering sedation

  3. Encouraging isolation

  4. Limiting family presence

The correct answer is: Providing clear instructions

Providing clear instructions is an effective strategy to reduce anxiety for patients in the pre-anesthesia phase. Clear communication helps patients understand what to expect during their procedure and the anesthesia process, which can alleviate fears and uncertainties. When patients are informed about the steps involved, the type of anesthesia to be administered, potential side effects, and what they can expect in terms of recovery, they are less likely to feel anxious. This approach empowers patients, making them feel more in control of their experience. In contrast, while offering sedation may temporarily alleviate anxiety, it does not help patients understand their situation or empower them with knowledge about their care. Encouraging isolation can lead to increased feelings of anxiety and loneliness, which are counterproductive to reducing stress. Limiting family presence can also exacerbate anxiety, as support from loved ones is often crucial for patients feeling nervous before a procedure. Therefore, providing clear instructions stands out as the most effective method for addressing pre-anesthesia anxiety.