A nurse is caring for a client who has arrived in the postoperative unit following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Which action should the nurse take?

Assist the client to turn, having them grasp the side rails.

Maintain strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively.

Assess the client's pain level and administer pain medication as needed.

Place the client in the prone position.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Assisting the client to turn by having them grasp the side rails is not recommended immediately following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. This action could place undue stress on the surgical site and potentially disrupt the healing process. Postoperative care typically involves minimizing movement of the spine to prevent complications.

Choice B reason:

Maintaining strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively is not a current standard of care following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Early ambulation, as tolerated, is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Choice C reason:

Assessing the client's pain level and administering pain medication as needed is a critical nursing intervention postoperatively. Effective pain management is essential for promoting patient comfort, facilitating early mobilization, and preventing complications. Pain assessment and management should be tailored to the individual's needs and carried out with regular monitoring.

Choice D reason:

Placing the client in the prone position is not typically advised following a laminectomy and spinal fusion, as it may put pressure on the surgical site and cause discomfort. The preferred position is usually on the back or occasionally on the side with proper support, depending on the surgeon's protocol and the client's comfort.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice a reason:
Decreasing intake of vitamin K-rich foods is not recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin K is essential for bone health because it helps in the synthesis of proteins required for bone formation and mineralization. A deficiency in vitamin K can lead to weakened bone structure and increased risk of fractures. Foods rich in vitamin K include green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, which should be a part of a balanced diet aimed at preventing osteoporosis.

Choice b reason:
Reducing sodium intake can be beneficial for bone health. Excessive sodium consumption can cause calcium loss through urine, which may contribute to bone demineralization and increase the risk of osteoporosis. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults.

Choice c reason:
Avoiding carbonated soda, especially those containing phosphoric acid, is advisable for osteoporosis prevention. Some studies suggest that phosphoric acid in soda can leach calcium from bones and decrease calcium absorption, potentially weakening bones and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

Choice d reason:
Limiting caffeinated beverages is a prudent step in preventing osteoporosis. Caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to its increased excretion in urine. It is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake to about 400 mg per day, equivalent to around four 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee.

A. Administering an antiemetic B. Applying sequential compression devices C. Assessing vital signs D. Hanging the Lactated Ringers solution

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Administering an antiemetic is an important intervention in the PACU, especially if the patient is experiencing nausea or has a history of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). However, it is not the first priority. Antiemetics work by blocking the neurotransmitters that trigger the vomiting reflex. Medications such as ondansetron or promethazine may be used.

Choice B reason:
Applying sequential compression devices is a preventive measure against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a risk due to immobility after surgery. These devices help improve venous return from the lower limbs by applying intermittent pressure. While important, this intervention follows after the assessment of vital signs.

Choice C reason:
Assessing vital signs is the first and foremost priority when a patient is transferred to the PACU. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, provide immediate information about the patient's hemodynamic status and can indicate the need for urgent interventions. Any evidence of respiratory or circulatory compromise requires immediate attention.

Choice D reason:
Hanging the Lactated Ringers solution is part of managing the patient's fluid status postoperatively. Lactated Ringers is an isotonic solution that helps to replace lost fluids and maintain electrolyte balance. While important for patient care, it is not the initial priority upon arrival in the PACU.

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