A nurse is caring for a client on postoperative day 2 following abdominal surgery. The surgeon prescribes a full liquid diet. Which food choice would be contraindicated for this client?

Choice A Reason:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. While strict bed rest can increase the risk of UTIs due to factors like catheter use and reduced mobility, the use of an incentive spirometer does not directly prevent UTIs. Instead, preventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and, if necessary, using catheters properly.

Choice B Reason:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. This can occur due to prolonged immobility, such as strict bed rest after surgery. Preventing DVT involves measures like using compression stockings, administering anticoagulant medications, and encouraging leg exercises. An incentive spirometer, which is used to improve lung function, does not directly prevent DVT.

Choice C Reason:

Constipation is a common issue for patients on bed rest due to reduced physical activity and changes in diet. Preventing constipation involves ensuring adequate hydration, providing a high-fiber diet, and encouraging as much physical activity as possible. The use of an incentive spirometer, which focuses on respiratory function, does not directly address constipation.

Choice D Reason:

Atelectasis is a condition where the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients on strict bed rest, due to shallow breathing and reduced lung expansion. The use of an incentive spirometer encourages deep breathing and helps to keep the alveoli open, thereby preventing atelectasis. This is why the incentive spirometer is an essential tool for postoperative respiratory care.

Choice A Reason:

The gastrocnemius muscle, located in the calf, is not a recommended site for intramuscular injections in newborns. This muscle is not typically used due to its small size and the difficulty in accessing it safely for an injection.

Choice B Reason:

The dorsogluteal muscle, located in the buttocks, is also not recommended for newborns. This site is avoided because of the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve and the relatively thick layer of subcutaneous fat, which can interfere with the absorption of the medication.

Choice C Reason:

The vastus lateralis muscle, located in the thigh, is the preferred site for intramuscular injections in newborns. This muscle is well-developed at birth and provides a large, easily accessible area for injections. It is also away from major blood vessels and nerves, making it a safe and effective site for administering medications like vitamin K.

Choice D Reason:

The ventrogluteal muscle, located on the side of the hip, is another site used for intramuscular injections, but it is not typically recommended for newborns. This site is more commonly used in older children and adults due to its deeper location and the need for precise anatomical knowledge to avoid complications.