What is one key responsibility of PACU RNs regarding patient airway?

One of the key responsibilities of PACU RNs is to continuously assess and ensure airway patency throughout recovery. After surgery and anesthesia, patients are at a higher risk for airway obstruction due to various factors such as residual effects of anesthesia, sedation, or physiological changes. The nurse’s role involves monitoring the patient’s breathing patterns, checking for any signs of airway compromise, and intervening as necessary to maintain a clear airway. This is critical for preventing hypoxia and ensuring adequate oxygenation during the recovery phase.

In the context of the other choices, while administering sedatives may be part of a PACU RN's duties, it is not specific to airway management and could, in fact, contribute to airway compromise if not carefully monitored. Making a discharge plan is an important aspect of post-operative care, but it occurs after the immediate airway concerns have been addressed. Providing patient education is essential for the overall care process, but it is not directly related to the immediate responsibility of ensuring airway patency in the recovery phase. Thus, focusing on airway assessment and management is fundamental to the nurse's role in the PACU setting.