A nurse is assessing a client who has pulmonary edema. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Beginning ball squeezing exercises is not advisable immediately after a modified radical mastectomy. The client's arm on the affected side needs time to heal, and strenuous exercises can strain the surgical site, increase pain, and potentially disrupt the healing process.

Choice B rationale:

Wearing a bra with wire support is not recommended, especially in the early postoperative period. Underwire bras can irritate the surgical site and interfere with the healing process. Patients are usually advised to wear soft, non-underwire bras or special post-surgical bras designed for comfort and support.

Choice C rationale:

Avoiding the use of the affected arm for eating is the correct instruction. Protecting the surgical site and preventing strain is essential for proper healing. Encouraging the client to use the opposite arm for activities like eating can minimize movement in the affected area, reducing the risk of complications.

Choice D rationale:

Using deodorant under the affected arm is not recommended immediately after surgery. The surgical site needs to be kept clean and dry to prevent infection and promote healing. Deodorants, especially those containing chemicals or fragrances, can irritate the skin and increase the risk of complications. Patients are usually advised to avoid applying any products to the surgical area until it is fully healed.

- A. This choice is incorrect because an older adult client who reports constipation of 4 days is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the client's hydration status, bowel habits, and medication use, and provide education on dietary and lifestyle modifications to prevent constipation.

- B. This choice is incorrect because a preschooler who has a skin rash is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the type, location, and distribution of the rash, as well as any history of allergies, exposure, or infection, and provide appropriate treatment and education.

- C. This choice is incorrect because an adolescent who has a closed fracture is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the site of injury, neurovascular status, pain level, and immobilization device, and provide analgesia and education on fracture care.

- D. This choice is correct because a middle adult client who has unstable vital signs is an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the client's level of consciousness, airway, breathing, circulation, and possible causes of instability, and initiate lifesaving interventions.