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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to maintain a full bladder is not relevant to an amniocentesis procedure. A full bladder may be necessary for certain other procedures, such as a pelvic ultrasound, but not for amniocentesis.
Choice B rationale:
Administering a tocolytic 30 minutes before the procedure is not a standard practice for amniocentesis. Tocolytics are medications used to suppress uterine contractions and are not routinely administered before this procedure.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the fetal heart rate throughout the procedure is essential during an amniocentesis. This helps assess the well-being of the fetus and ensures that the procedure is not causing fetal distress. Any changes in fetal heart rate can indicate potential complications and may require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Placing the client in Trendelenburg position during the procedure is not recommended for amniocentesis. Trendelenburg position, where the body is supine with the legs elevated higher than the head, is not routinely used during this procedure and may cause discomfort to the client without providing significant clinical benefits.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Implement fall precautions for the client.
- A. Implement fall precautions for the client. This is correct because risperidone can cause orthostatic hypotension, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries. The nurse should advise the client to change positions slowly, avoid alcohol and dehydration, and use assistive devices as needed.
- B. Monitor the client's thyroid function. This is incorrect because risperidone does not affect thyroid function. The nurse should monitor the client's thyroid function if they are taking lithium, which can cause hypothyroidism.
- C. Place the client on a fluid restriction. This is incorrect because risperidone does not cause fluid retention or overload. The nurse should encourage adequate fluid intake and monitor the client's fluid balance.
- D. Discontinue the medication if hallucinations occur. This is incorrect because hallucinations are a symptom of schizophrenia, not a side effect of risperidone. The nurse should not discontinue the medication abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse of psychosis. The nurse should assess the client's response to the medication, report any adverse effects, and adjust the dosage as prescribed.
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