Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

If a patient is hypothermic in phase I recovery, how frequently should a serial temperature be taken?

1. 5 minutes

2. 10 minutes

3. 15 minutes

4. 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 15 minutes

When managing a hypothermic patient in phase I recovery, guidance typically recommends taking serial temperatures every 15 minutes. This frequent monitoring is crucial as it allows healthcare providers to closely observe the patient's response to interventions aimed at warming and stabilizing their body temperature. Monitoring every 15 minutes provides an adequate balance between vigilance and practicality. Taking temperatures too frequently, such as every 5 or 10 minutes, may not yield significantly different clinical insights due to the time it takes for any changes in temperature to occur. On the other hand, waiting 30 minutes may not allow for timely interventions if the patient's condition does not improve. Thus, a 15-minute interval strikes a proper rhythm for ongoing assessment while providing the opportunity to implement action plans effectively if needed.