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 C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Instruct the client to remain on bed rest for the first 24 hr: Strict bed rest is not recommended after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy because early ambulation helps reduce the risk of atelectasis, venous thromboembolism, and postoperative gas pain. Keeping the client immobile can delay recovery and contribute to complications.
B. Instruct the client to consume foods high in fat: High-fat foods can trigger abdominal discomfort and diarrhea after gallbladder removal because bile secretion is no longer regulated. Clients are advised to begin with low-fat meals to prevent gastrointestinal distress while the body adjusts to continuous bile flow.
C. Instruct the client to cough and breathe deep every hour: Deep breathing and coughing exercises help prevent postoperative pulmonary complications, especially atelectasis from anesthesia and reduced mobility. Encouraging these exercises hourly promotes lung expansion, clears secretions, and supports optimal respiratory function during recovery.
D. Instruct the client to avoid taking a shower for 1 week: Most clients may shower within 24–48 hours after a laparoscopic procedure once dressings are removed, provided incisions are clean and dry. Restricting showers for an entire week is unnecessary and may hinder comfort and hygiene without providing additional protection to the incision sites.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
Rationale:
- Prenatal anemia: Anemia reduces immune function and tissue oxygenation, making the client more susceptible to postpartum infections, including uterine and systemic infections.
- High parity: Multiparity increases the risk of uterine atony due to repeated stretching and decreased tone of the uterine muscles. This predisposes the postpartum client to poor uterine contraction and increased risk of hemorrhage.
- Polyhydramnios: Excessive amniotic fluid causes uterine overdistension, which weakens uterine contractility and increases the risk of atony and postpartum hemorrhage.
- Prolonged rupture of membranes: Extended rupture of membranes (>18 hours) significantly increases the risk of intrauterine or postpartum infection, including endometritis, due to ascending bacteria from the vaginal canal. This can lead to fever, leukocytosis, and foul-smelling lochia.
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