Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

What might prolonged neuromuscular blockade results lead to in a post-operative patient?

1. Increased respiratory rate

2. Delayed extubation

3. Increased cardiac output

4. Decreased level of sedation

The correct answer is: Delayed extubation

Prolonged neuromuscular blockade can significantly impact a post-operative patient's recovery, particularly in the context of extubation. When neuromuscular blockers are used during surgery, they may take time to wear off after the procedure is complete. If the effects persist longer than expected, the patient may show inadequate muscle function, particularly in the respiratory muscles, which are crucial for effective breathing and airway protection. As a result, the patient's inability to breathe spontaneously or maintain adequate airway tone can lead to delayed extubation. In this case, extubation refers to the process of removing the endotracheal tube that supports breathing. A patient who has not regained sufficient muscle strength might be unable to tolerate extubation, leading to unnecessary prolongation of respiratory support. This situation underscores the importance of monitoring neuromuscular function in the post-anesthesia care setting to ensure timely and safe extubation once the patient is stable. In contrast, increased respiratory rate, increased cardiac output, and decreased level of sedation do not directly relate to the effects of neuromuscular blockade and are not typically outcomes associated with prolonged blockage. Rather, they may be influenced by other factors in the post-operative recovery process.