Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is caring for a client who had abdominal surgery 24 hr ago. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

A.

Assess fluid intake every 24 hr.

B.

Ambulate three times a day.

C.

Assist with deep breathing and coughing.

D.

Monitor the incision site for findings of infection.

Answer and Explanation

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. 
 


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

- A. Incorrect. Organizing the work environment is an important step of the time management process, but it is not the priority. The nurse manager should first identify the activities that need to be done before organizing them.

- B. Incorrect. Delegating assigned tasks appropriately is an important step of the time management process, but it is not the priority. The nurse manager should first determine which tasks can be delegated and which ones require their direct involvement before assigning them to others.

- C. Correct. Making a list of activities to complete is the priority step of the time management process, as it helps the nurse manager to identify and prioritize their goals and responsibilities.

- D. Incorrect. Rewarding yourself for accomplishing goals is an important step of the time management process, but it is not the priority. The nurse manager should first complete the tasks that are essential and urgent before rewarding themselves for their achievements.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Assign the client to a private room with negative air pressure.

Rationale:

  • A. Incorrect. Restricting fresh flowers from the client's room is not necessary for infection control purposes. However, some clients with pulmonary tuberculosis may have hypersensitivity reactions to certain plants or flowers, so the nurse should assess the client's allergies before allowing them in the room.
  • B. Incorrect. Maintaining a distance of 1.8 m (6 feet) from the client is not sufficient to prevent transmission of tuberculosis. Visitors should also wear a HEPA respirator and limit their contact time with the client.
  • C. Incorrect. A surgical mask is not adequate to protect the nurse from inhaling airborne droplet nuclei that contain Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The nurse should wear a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) respirator when providing client care.
  • D. Correct. Assigning the client to a private room with negative air pressure is the most effective way to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to other clients and staff members. The room should have at least six air exchanges per hour and an exhaust system that vents directly to the outside.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register