Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

In the context of preoperative assessment, what is an important factor to screen in patients with a family history of anesthesia complications?

1. Aspirin use

2. Malignant hyperthermia

3. Postoperative nausea

4. Medication allergies

The correct answer is: Malignant hyperthermia

In the context of preoperative assessment, screening for malignant hyperthermia is crucial for patients with a family history of anesthesia complications because malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening condition triggered by certain anesthetic agents, particularly in individuals who have a genetic predisposition. This genetic component means that if a patient has close relatives who have experienced complications related to anesthesia, specifically malignant hyperthermia, there is a significantly increased risk for that patient as well. Identifying patients at risk for malignant hyperthermia allows healthcare providers to take appropriate precautions, such as using alternative anesthetic techniques and medications that do not trigger this reaction. Additionally, having a strategy in place can potentially prevent severe complications during surgery. While other factors such as medication allergies and the use of aspirin can be important in a preoperative assessment, they do not have the same direct link to a family history of anesthesia complications as malignant hyperthermia does. Postoperative nausea, although a common concern, is not specifically associated with family history in the same way. Thus, focusing on malignant hyperthermia in this context is essential for ensuring patient safety.