Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Nurses Operating Room Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions; each accompanied by hints and in-depth explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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What is an early sign of malignant hyperthermia (MH)?

Tachycardia
Hypotension
Hyperthermia
Cyanosis

The correct answer is: Tachycardia

Tachycardia is recognized as an early sign of malignant hyperthermia (MH), a life-threatening condition often triggered by certain anesthetic agents. In the context of MH, the body's metabolism significantly increases, leading to elevated calcium levels in muscle cells, which contributes to rapid heart rate. This increased demand for oxygen and the body's stress response can manifest as tachycardia well before other signs become evident. While hyperthermia is a hallmark symptom of MH, it typically develops later in the course of the event and is generally not the first indicator. Hypotension and cyanosis can also occur as the condition progresses and the patient becomes more compromised, but they are not the initial signs. Understanding the early symptoms such as tachycardia allows for quicker recognition and intervention, which is crucial in improving patient outcomes during an MH crisis.