CAPA Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep for Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse Test

Transferring a patient out of the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) is appropriate when the patient has fully recovered and stabilized. This includes criteria such as the patient being alert, exhibiting stable vital signs, and having manageable levels of pain or any side effects from anesthesia.

The goal of the PACU is to monitor patients carefully after surgery until they are sufficiently recovered from anesthesia, which involves ensuring they can maintain their airway, demonstrate adequate oxygenation, and are not experiencing adverse reactions.

Moving a patient prematurely, such as simply regaining consciousness, does not guarantee they are ready for transfer, as they may still require monitoring for other physiological parameters, including respiratory function and hemodynamic stability. Administering medication is part of patient care in the PACU, but it does not serve as a sole criterion for transfer readiness. Having available beds in the surgical unit is a logistical consideration, but it should not compromise the safety and readiness of transferring patients who need to be fully stable before leaving the PACU.