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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- A. Encourage the client to take a cool sponge bath each morning is not correct because it can increase joint stiffness and pain.
- B. Administer opioid analgesia is not correct because it is not the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and can cause dependence and tolerance.
- C. Increase the client's dietary iron intake is indicate in rheumatoid arthritis due to anemia of chronic inflammation.
- D. Restrict the client's intake of foods high in purines is incorrect in rheumatoid. It is an important measure in gouty arthritis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
How does this make you feel?
- A. Saying "I'm sure your family does not want you to die" is not a therapeutic response, as it invalidates the client's feelings and imposes the nurse's assumption on the client. This option is incorrect.
- B. Asking "Why would you believe such things?" is not a therapeutic response, as it sounds judgmental and confrontational, and may make the client feel defensive or ashamed. This option is incorrect.
- C. Asking "How does this make you feel?" is a therapeutic response, as it encourages the client to express their emotions and shows empathy and interest from the nurse. This option is correct.
- D. Saying "You should talk to your family about your feelings" is not a therapeutic response, as it implies that the client is responsible for resolving their family issues and may increase their guilt or anxiety. This option is incorrect.
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