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?

Choice A reason:
In the case of burns to the face and chest, assessing for inhalation injuries is critical due to the potential for airway compromise. Inhalation injuries can lead to significant respiratory distress and are considered a high priority in burn care. Inspecting the mouth for soot, burns, or edema can provide immediate information about the potential for respiratory complications, which can be life-threatening.

Choice B reason:
While monitoring urine output is important in burn patients for assessing fluid balance and kidney function, it is not the immediate priority. The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter can be performed after stabilizing the airway and ensuring the patient is breathing adequately.

Choice C reason:
A CBC count is important for evaluating the patient's overall health status and can indicate the presence of infection or anemia. However, it is not the first action to take in the emergency setting where immediate life-saving interventions are prioritized.

Choice D reason:
Administering intravenous pain medication is important for patient comfort and can facilitate further care, but it is not the first priority. The initial focus should be on life-saving measures such as securing the airway and assessing for inhalation injuries.

Choice A reason:Scheduling the procedure five days before the expected menses would place it in the late proliferative phase, which risks missing ongoing menstrual bleeding and could coincide with implantation if the client ovulated early. Best practice is to perform the test after menstruation ends but before ovulation—usually within 12 days of the first day of the last period—to ensure the client is not pregnant.

Choice B reason:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of HSG. The procedure involves the insertion of a dye into the uterine cavity to visualize the fallopian tubes and uterus via X-ray. While some discomfort, cramping, or spotting may occur, diarrhea is not typically expected.

Choice C reason:
There is no requirement for a client to be on a liquid diet following an HSG procedure. The client can usually resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.

Choice D reason:
Referred shoulder pain can occur when contrast fluid spills through a patent tube into the peritoneal cavity, irritating the diaphragm’s undersurface and eliciting pain perceived at the shoulder via the phrenic nerve. Clients should be advised this is normal, short-lived, and relieved by positioning or mild analgesics.