A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) with an intravenous (IV) fluid infusion and a nasogastric (NG) tube in place following abdominal surgery. Which of the following data is the priority for the nurse to assess?

The coping ability of the client

The client's bowel sounds

The patency of the NG tube

The surgical dressing

None

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:
Assessing the coping ability of the client is important, but it is not the immediate priority following abdominal surgery. The nurse must first ensure that the client's physiological needs are met and that there are no immediate postoperative complications.

Choice B reason:
While monitoring bowel sounds can provide valuable information about the return of gastrointestinal function, it is not the most immediate concern postoperatively. The nurse should prioritize assessments that ensure the client's safety and immediate physiological stability.

Choice C reason:
Ensuring the patency of the NG tube is the priority assessment. A patent NG tube is crucial for decompressing the stomach, preventing nausea and vomiting, and reducing the risk of aspiration, which can be life-threatening. It is also essential for the removal of gastric secretions and to prevent abdominal distention, which can compromise the surgical site and lead to complications such as wound dehiscence.

Choice D reason:
Assessing the surgical dressing is important to check for signs of bleeding or infection. However, the patency of the NG tube takes precedence as it is directly related to the client's airway and breathing, which are always the top priorities in postoperative care.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Testicular torsion is a condition where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It is not a typical complication following a prostatectomy. Testicular torsion is generally an acute condition that affects younger males and is unrelated to prostate surgery.

Choice B reason:

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication after prostatectomy. The surgery can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erections, leading to ED. While nerve-sparing techniques aim to reduce this risk, some degree of erectile dysfunction is still possible after the procedure.

Choice C reason:

Cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder, can occur after a prostatectomy due to the use of a catheter or as a result of the surgery itself. However, it is not as common or as significant a long-term complication as erectile dysfunction.

Choice D reason:

Paralytic ileus, a temporary cessation of bowel movements, can occur after any abdominal surgery due to the manipulation of the intestines or as a side effect of anesthesia. While it can be a complication of prostatectomy, it is typically resolved within a few days to weeks after surgery.

A. Urinary retention B. Hot flashes C. Constipation D. Tinnitus

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Urinary retention is not commonly reported as an adverse effect of tamoxifen. While urinary symptoms can occur, they are not as prevalent as other side effects such as hot flashes or mood changes.

Choice B reason:
Hot flashes are a well-documented adverse effect of tamoxifen. They occur due to the antiestrogenic effects of the medication, which can mimic menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. Tamoxifen is a medication used to treat breast cancer and is known to cause several adverse effects. Based on the information provided by reliable health sources, hot flashes are a common side effect experienced by patients taking tamoxifen

Choice C reason:
Constipation is not typically listed as a common adverse effect of tamoxifen. Gastrointestinal symptoms may occur, but they are more often related to nausea or vomiting rather than constipation.

Choice D reason:
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not a recognized common adverse effect of tamoxifen. While patients may experience a range of side effects, tinnitus is not frequently associated with the use of tamoxifen.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) with an intravenous (IV) fluid infusion and a nasogastric (NG) tube in place following abdominal surgery. Which of the following data is the priority for the nurse to assess?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has prostate cancer and has undergone a prostatectomy. Which of the following should the nurse understand as a potential complication of prostate surgery?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a client who is to begin taking tamoxifen to treat breast cancer. The nurse should instruct the client to expect which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the medication?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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