A nurse is caring for a client following a vacuum-assisted birth. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications related to vacuum-assisted birth?

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.

"I can designate my partner as my health care surrogate."

• A. Correct. Designating a health care surrogate is one of the components of an advance directive, which allows the client to appoint someone who can make medical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so themselves.
• B. Incorrect. Age is not a factor that determines the need for an advance directive, as anyone can become incapacitated at any time due to illness or injury.
• C. Incorrect. A lawyer's help is not necessary to draw up an advance directive, as there are standardized forms available that can be filled out by the client and witnessed by two adults. - D. Incorrect. The family cannot alter or override the advance directives of the client unless they have been designated as their health care surrogate or have obtained a court order to do so.