Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is the most common postoperative complication after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery?

1. Bleeding

2. Atrial fibrillation

3. Stroke

4. Ventricular fibrillation

The correct answer is: Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is recognized as the most common postoperative complication following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. This arrhythmia occurs due to a combination of factors including the stress of surgery, manipulation of the heart, and changes in the autonomic nervous system. Atrial fibrillation can arise in the postoperative period due to these physiological changes and is observed in a significant percentage of patients undergoing this type of heart surgery. The presence of atrial fibrillation may lead to increased heart rate, decreased cardiac output, and possible complications such as thromboembolic events. Management often includes medications such as beta-blockers or anticoagulants to control the heart rate and reduce the risk of stroke. Other complications such as bleeding, stroke, and ventricular fibrillation can also occur postoperatively but are less common compared to atrial fibrillation. While bleeding can happen, it is often managed effectively with surgical intervention or transfusion. Stroke, although serious, has a lower incidence relative to the occurrence of atrial fibrillation after CABG. Ventricular fibrillation is a critical condition but is more typically associated with acute myocardial infarction rather than a frequent postoperative complication. Understanding the commonality of atrial fibrillation helps in the preparation and monitoring of