A nurse is assisting with the care of client who is 6 hr postoperative. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Serosanguinous drainage on dressing
Hypoactive bowel sounds
Urinary output of 25 mL/hr
Pain level of 2 on 0 to 10 scale
The Correct Answer is C
A. Serosanguinous drainage on dressing: Serosanguinous drainage, which is a mixture of clear and blood-tinged fluid, is a common and expected finding in the early postoperative period. It typically indicates normal healing unless the amount becomes excessive or the drainage changes character.
B. Hypoactive bowel sounds: Hypoactive bowel sounds are common within the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery, especially after general anesthesia or abdominal procedures. This finding is expected and does not immediately require provider notification unless accompanied by other concerning signs like severe abdominal distention.
C. Urinary output of 25 mL/hr: Urinary output should be at least 30 mL/hr to indicate adequate kidney perfusion and hydration. An output of 25 mL/hr suggests possible hypovolemia, renal impairment, or urinary retention, and it should be promptly reported to the provider for further evaluation.
D. Pain level of 2 on 0 to 10 scale: A pain score of 2 indicates mild pain, which is manageable and expected after surgery. This level of discomfort does not require urgent reporting to the provider as long as it remains controlled and does not interfere with recovery activities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The restraint is attached to the side rails of the bed: Restraints should never be attached to the side rails because moving the rails could cause injury to the client. Restraints must be secured to a stationary part of the bed frame to prevent tightening, which could lead to impaired circulation or nerve damage if the bed position changes.
B. The restraint strap is tied into a knot: Tying the restraint strap into a knot is unsafe because knots are difficult to untie quickly in an emergency. Quick-release ties or slipknots are recommended to ensure the client can be released rapidly if needed, reducing the risk of injury or complications from prolonged restraint.
C. The nurse can insert two fingers under the restraint: Being able to insert two fingers under the restraint indicates that it is properly applied—not too tight to impair circulation, and not too loose to be ineffective. This ensures client safety by allowing adequate blood flow and reducing the risk of skin breakdown or nerve injury.
D. The skin under the restraint is cool and has changed color: Coolness and discoloration under a restraint are signs of impaired circulation and require immediate intervention. These findings are abnormal and suggest that the restraint is too tight, potentially leading to tissue ischemia, nerve damage, or pressure injuries if not promptly addressed.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will empty the pouch every 2 to 3 hours.": While it is important to empty the pouch when it is about one-third to half full, emptying it every 2 to 3 hours is unnecessary unless output is extremely high. Frequent emptying is based on the volume of stool, not strict timing.
B. "I will no longer be able to eat nuts.": Clients with a sigmoid colostomy typically resume a normal diet after healing, including nuts, unless otherwise instructed. Nuts are more commonly restricted after ileostomies due to the risk of obstruction, not sigmoid colostomies.
C. "I should expect my stool to be unformed.": Stool from a sigmoid colostomy is usually formed or semi-formed because it comes from the end of the colon where water absorption has mostly occurred. Unformed stool is more characteristic of ileostomies.
D. "I will notify my doctor if the stoma starts to look purple.": A healthy stoma should appear pink to red and moist. A purple, dark, or dusky stoma indicates impaired blood flow or ischemia and requires immediate medical evaluation to prevent serious complications.
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