ANCC Medical-Surgical Nursing Exam Prep

Answer: C - The patient described in this situation has most likely developed malignant hyperthermia. This is a condition characterized by rapidly increasing temperature, cardiac dysrhythmias, and respiratory failure. Malignant hyperthermia typically occurs as a result of anesthesia administration and is a life-threatening event.  The nurse should rapid escalate the level of medical attention at the first sign. The surgical staff must respond quickly by administering muscle-relaxing medications and cooling the body to stabilize the patient.