A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postoperative following an appendectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report?
Temperature 37.2° C (99° F)
Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site
Red streaks along the incision
Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants
The Correct Answer is C
Red streaks along the incision. This is a possible sign of infection and should be reported to the healthcare provider. A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting. Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively. Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
Choice A: A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting.
Choice B: Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively.
Choice D: Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This finding could indicate the presence of bile leakage, which can occur following a cholecystectomy. The provider should be notified immediately as the client may require further interventions. Incisional pain, shoulder pain, and a dry and intact abdominal dressing are expected findings in the postoperative period.
Choice C, incisional pain 5 out of 10 on a pain scale, is not the correct answer because this level of pain is within the expected range for the postoperative period.
Choice D, abdominal dressing dry and intact, is not the correct answer because this is an expected finding in the postoperative period.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should perform neurovascular checks of the affected extremity every 2 hours to monitor for any signs of compartment syndrome or impaired circulation. It is important to assess for the five Ps: pain, pulse, pallor, paresthesia, and paralysis. Using a hair dryer to relieve itching can cause burns and is not a recommended intervention. Positioning the fractured arm below the level of the client's heart can increase swelling and exacerbate pain. Immobilizing the client's fingers using a hand splint is not indicated unless there is a finger fracture or injury.
Choice A (Use a hair dryer to blow hot air into the cast to relieve itching) is not an answer because it can cause burns and is not a recommended intervention.
Choice C (Position the fractured arm below the level of the client's heart) is not an answer because it can increase swelling and exacerbate pain.
Choice D (Immobilize the client's fingers using a hand splint) is not an answer because it is not indicated unless there is a finger fracture or injury.
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