A nurse caring for a postoperative client removes the client's dressing and notes an area of dehiscence. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the head of the client's bed flat with the client's legs extended.
Apply butterfly strips to approximate the wound edges.
Apply pressure directly to the wound for 15 min.
Place a sterile, saline-soaked dressing on the wound.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Place the head of the client's bed flat with the client's legs extended: Positioning flat may increase tension on the abdominal incision, potentially worsening the dehiscence. A low Fowler’s position with knees slightly bent is preferred to reduce strain on the wound.
B. Apply butterfly strips to approximate the wound edges: Forcing the wound edges together could trap bacteria inside and increase the risk of infection. Dehiscence requires moist protection, not forced closure at the bedside.
C. Apply pressure directly to the wound for 15 min: Direct pressure is appropriate for active bleeding, not for dehiscence. Applying pressure could damage tissues further and does not address the need to protect exposed structures.
D. Place a sterile, saline-soaked dressing on the wound: A moist sterile dressing protects the wound from contamination, prevents the tissues from drying, and reduces the risk of infection while awaiting further surgical evaluation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Speech-language pathologist: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialize in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders (dysphagia). They can assess the client’s swallowing ability, recommend appropriate diet modifications, and provide strategies to reduce choking risk.
B. Social worker: Social workers provide support for psychosocial needs, discharge planning, and community resources, but they do not assess or manage swallowing difficulties. Referral to a social worker may be appropriate for broader care needs but not for dysphagia.
C. Respiratory therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on airway management, ventilation, and pulmonary function. While they can assist if aspiration leads to respiratory complications, they do not primarily assess swallowing function.
D. Occupational therapist: Occupational therapists help clients with activities of daily living and adaptive equipment. Although they may assist with feeding techniques or positioning, they are not specialized in assessing or treating swallowing disorders.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "A living will is a document that includes my wishes about health care decisions.": A living will is an advance directive that specifies a client’s preferences for medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate.
B. "My partner needs to be present as a witness when I sign a living will.": Witness requirements vary by state, and typically a neutral adult, not necessarily a partner, must witness the signing.
C. "My provider will make my health care decisions if I complete advance directives.": Advance directives are intended to communicate the client’s own wishes, not delegate decision-making solely to the provider. The provider’s role is to follow the client’s documented preferences.
D. "Advance directives outline who inherits my material possessions in the event of my death.": Inheritance is addressed in a will, not advance directives. Advance directives focus exclusively on medical and end-of-life care decisions.
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