A nurse is caring for a client who had abdominal surgery 24 hr ago. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Assess fluid intake every 24 hr.
Ambulate three times a day.
Assist with deep breathing and coughing.
Monitor the incision site for findings of infection.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assessing fluid intake every 24 hr is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should monitor fluid intake and output more frequently, such as every 8 hr or every shift, to detect any imbalances or complications.
B. Ambulating three times a day is beneficial for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should encourage early and frequent ambulation to promote circulation, prevent thromboembolism, and enhance bowel function, but only after ensuring that the client is stable and has adequate pain control.
C. Assisting with deep breathing and coughing is the priority action for a postoperative client who had abdominal surgery. The nurse should help the client perform these exercises every 1 to 2 hr to prevent atelectasis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, which are common and serious complications after abdominal surgery.
D. Monitoring the incision site for findings of infection is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should inspect the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or odor, but this can be done during routine dressing changes or as needed.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Initiate droplet isolation precautions is incorrect because cystic fibrosis is not transmitted by droplets, but by autosomal recessive inheritance.
B. Keep the child on NPO status for 12 hr is incorrect because there is no indication for withholding oral intake in this child. The child needs adequate hydration and nutrition to prevent dehydration and malnutrition due to increased metabolic demands and mucus production.
C. Maintain the child on bed rest for 24 hr is incorrect because bed rest can worsen the child's respiratory status by decreasing lung expansion and increasing mucus retention. The child needs to be encouraged to ambulate and participate in activities as tolerated to promote airway clearance and prevent atelectasis and infection.
D. Administer high-dose antibiotic therapy is correct because the child has signs of a pulmonary infection, such as wheezing, productive cough, and thick sputum. Antibiotics are indicated to treat the infection and prevent complications such as pneumonia and bronchiectasis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Perhaps you think the ECT is dangerous, but I've seen it have good results." This response is dismissive of the client's concerns and implies that the nurse knows better than the client.
B. "You have the right to change your mind about this procedure at any time." This response respects the client's autonomy and informs them of their rights.
C. "Everyone gets a little nervous about this procedure as the time for it approaches." This response minimizes the client's feelings and assumes that they are experiencing normal anxiety.
D. "Your doctor wouldn't have suggested ECT if they didn't think it would help you." This response shifts the responsibility to the doctor and does not address the client's fears.
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