What are common signs of an airway obstruction in a patient recovering from anesthesia?

In a patient recovering from anesthesia, common signs of an airway obstruction include snoring, stridor, and cyanosis. These symptoms can indicate that the airway is compromised, potentially due to relaxation of the upper airway muscles, or other factors affecting airflow.

Snoring can occur when there is partial obstruction due to relaxed tissues in the throat vibrating during breathing. Stridor, which is a high-pitched, crowing sound, often suggests that there is an upper airway obstruction and requires immediate attention. Cyanosis, characterized by a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, signals inadequate oxygenation due to blocked airflow. Observing these signs is vital for nurses in the PACU to ensure that appropriate interventions are taken to maintain the patient’s airway integrity and promote safe recovery from anesthesia.

The other options present symptoms that may not specifically indicate an airway obstruction. Elevated blood pressure and tachycardia can be indicative of other physiological responses, such as pain or anxiety. Dry mouth and sweating could relate to various factors, including dehydration or stress. Fever and chills might suggest infection or other systemic issues but are not specifically tied to airway obstruction. Thus, the identification of snoring, stridor, and cyanosis is critically important for recognizing and addressing