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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Palpate the degree of edema. This is incorrect because palpating the degree of edema requires clinical judgment and skill, which are beyond the scope of practice of an AP.
B. Regulate IV pump fluid rate. This is incorrect because regulating IV pump fluid rate is a nursing responsibility that involves calculating and adjusting the infusion rate based on the client's condition and orders.
C. Measure the client's daily weight. This is correct because measuring the client's daily weight is a routine task that can be delegated to an AP, as long as the nurse provides clear instructions and monitors the results. The client's daily weight is an indicator of fluid balance and can help evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
D. Assess the client's vital signs. This is incorrect because assessing the client's vital signs requires interpretation and analysis of data, which are nursing functions that cannot be delegated to an AP.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Obesity is not a risk factor for osteoporosis. In fact, obesity may have a protective effect on bone density due to increased mechanical loading and higher levels of estrogen in adipose tissue.
B. Acromegaly is not a risk factor for osteoporosis. Acromegaly is a condition caused by excess growth hormone, which leads to increased bone formation and remodeling.
C. Estrogen replacement therapy is not a risk factor for osteoporosis. Estrogen replacement therapy can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women with low estrogen levels.
D. Sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Sedentary lifestyle reduces physical activity and muscle strength, which decreases bone stimulation and increases bone resorption.
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