A nurse is assessing a client 3 days following a hysterectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication the client is developing a complication?
Increased hemoglobin
Increased urinary output
Unilateral leg swelling
Mild pain at the surgical site
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Increased hemoglobin: A rise in hemoglobin is not expected after surgery but also does not suggest a postoperative complication. It may reflect hemoconcentration from mild dehydration or fluid shifts. This finding does not indicate infection, thrombosis, or impaired healing, so it is not a priority concern at this stage.
B. Increased urinary output: Higher urinary output may occur if the client is well-hydrated or receiving IV fluids. This finding does not suggest renal impairment or postoperative complications. As long as urine is clear and the client is stable, increased output is not concerning and requires only routine monitoring.
C. Unilateral leg swelling: One-sided leg swelling is a hallmark sign of deep vein thrombosis, a serious complication after pelvic surgery due to venous stasis and immobilization. A DVT can progress to pulmonary embolism, posing immediate danger. The finding requires prompt evaluation and intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.
D. Mild pain at the surgical site: Mild incisional pain is expected on postoperative day three as tissues heal and inflammation decreases. This finding is typical and manageable with analgesics. As long as pain is not severe or accompanied by fever, redness, or purulent drainage, it does not indicate a complication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "You should not drink through a straw for 2 weeks.": Drinking through a straw can create pressure in the middle ear, which may dislodge the tympanic membrane graft or interfere with healing after a myringotomy. Avoiding straws is an important precaution to protect the surgical site and promote proper recovery.
B. "You should expect excessive ear drainage for about 48 hours": Some drainage may occur, but excessive drainage is not expected and could indicate infection or complications. Clients should be instructed to report any abnormal or persistent drainage to the provider rather than expecting it as normal.
C. "You can wash your hair 3 days after the procedure.": Hair washing is typically delayed until the provider confirms it is safe, usually after avoiding water in the ear for a few days. Premature washing could allow water to enter the middle ear, increasing the risk of infection.
D. "You should blow your nose with your mouth closed": Blowing the nose increases pressure in the middle ear and can compromise the healing of the tympanic membrane. Clients should be taught to avoid nose-blowing entirely or do so gently with the mouth open if necessary.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Inform the transferring agency of the client's condition: While notifying the transferring facility may be part of documentation or reporting, it does not directly address suspicions of abuse. The priority is to gather accurate information from the client in a safe and confidential manner before reporting.
B. Notify risk management: Risk management may be involved in internal investigation processes, but contacting them is not the first step when abuse is suspected. Immediate priority is assessing the client’s safety and obtaining information about the injuries.
C. Privately interview the client about the injuries: Conducting a private, nonjudgmental interview allows the nurse to gather direct information about the cause of the injuries without influence or intimidation from others. This is a critical first step in identifying potential elder abuse, ensuring the client’s safety, and providing evidence for appropriate reporting.
D. Contact the family regarding the client's condition: Contacting family members before assessing the client can compromise the investigation, particularly if family members are potential perpetrators. Privacy and safety of the client must be prioritized before involving others.
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