A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postoperative after having a total abdominal hysterectomy.
Drag words from the choices below to fill in each blank in the following sentence.
The client is at risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"B","dropdown-group-3":"C"}
The client is at risk for developing Pneumonia, Deep vein thrombosis, and Pressure ulcers
Choice A: Pneumonia
Reason: Postoperative patients, especially those who have undergone abdominal surgery, are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia. This is due to the fact that pain and discomfort can prevent them from taking deep breaths and coughing effectively, which are essential actions to clear the lungs of secretions. The nurse’s notes indicate that the client is refusing to turn and cough due to pain, which further increases the risk of pneumonia. The use of splinting with a pillow when coughing is a technique to help reduce pain and encourage effective coughing, but if the client refuses to comply, the risk remains high.
Choice B: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Reason: Deep vein thrombosis is a significant risk for postoperative patients, particularly those who are immobile. The client in this scenario has refused to wear intermittent pneumatic compression devices, which are designed to prevent DVT by promoting blood circulation in the legs. Immobility and the lack of these devices increase the risk of blood clots forming in the deep veins of the legs. If a clot forms and travels to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. The nurse’s notes emphasize the importance of these devices, but the client’s refusal to use them puts them at a higher risk of developing DVT.
Choice C: Pressure Ulcers
Reason: Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a common complication for patients who are immobile for extended periods. The client’s refusal to change positions increases the risk of pressure ulcers developing on areas of the body that are in constant contact with the bed. These ulcers can be painful and lead to serious infections if not managed properly. Regular turning and repositioning are crucial in preventing pressure ulcers, and the nurse’s notes highlight the importance of this practice.
Choice D: Urinary Retention
Reason: While urinary retention can be a postoperative complication, it is less likely in this scenario because the client has a Foley catheter in place, which is draining to a bedside bag. The catheter helps to ensure that the bladder is emptied regularly, reducing the risk of urinary retention. Therefore, this is not one of the primary risks for this client based on the provided information.
Choice E: Hemorrhage
Reason: Hemorrhage, or excessive bleeding, is a potential risk after any surgery, including a total abdominal hysterectomy. However, the nurse’s notes indicate that the abdominal dressing is dry and intact, and only scant vaginal bleeding has been observed. This suggests that there is no significant bleeding at this time. While hemorrhage is always a concern, the current observations do not indicate an immediate risk.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Supported Sims: The Supported Sims position involves lying on one side with the lower arm behind the back and the upper thigh flexed. This position is not typically recommended for postoperative cholecystectomy patients as it does not provide optimal support for breathing and comfort.
Choice B reason:
Semi-Fowler’s: The Semi-Fowler’s position, where the head of the bed is elevated to about 30-45 degrees, is ideal for postoperative cholecystectomy patients. This position helps facilitate breathing, reduces the risk of aspiration, and promotes comfort by reducing tension on the abdominal muscles.
Choice C reason:
Dorsal recumbent: The Dorsal recumbent position involves lying flat on the back with knees bent and feet flat on the bed. While this position can be used for certain procedures, it is not the most comfortable or beneficial for postoperative cholecystectomy patients as it can increase abdominal pressure and discomfort.
Choice D reason:
Prone: The Prone position, where the patient lies flat on their stomach, is not suitable for postoperative cholecystectomy patients. This position can cause discomfort and does not support optimal breathing or reduce abdominal tension.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obtain a 12-lead ECG
Obtaining a 12-lead ECG is a critical action when a client has a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which indicates hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can cause serious cardiac dysrhythmias, including life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or asystole. An ECG can help detect these abnormalities early, allowing for prompt intervention to prevent cardiac complications. The ECG may show characteristic changes such as peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, and prolonged PR intervals, which are indicative of hyperkalemia.
Choice B reason: Suggest that the client use a salt substitute
Suggesting that the client use a salt substitute is not appropriate in this situation. Many salt substitutes contain potassium chloride, which can further increase the potassium level in the blood. For a client with hyperkalemia, it is crucial to avoid additional sources of potassium to prevent exacerbating the condition. Therefore, recommending a salt substitute could be harmful.
Choice C reason: Advise the client to add citrus juices and bananas to her diet
Advising the client to add citrus juices and bananas to her diet is also inappropriate. Both citrus juices and bananas are high in potassium and can contribute to an increase in serum potassium levels. For a client with hyperkalemia, it is essential to limit dietary potassium intake to help lower the potassium levels in the blood. Encouraging the consumption of high-potassium foods would be counterproductive and potentially dangerous.
Choice D reason: Obtain a blood sample for a serum sodium level
While obtaining a blood sample for a serum sodium level can be part of a comprehensive assessment, it is not the immediate priority in managing hyperkalemia. The primary concern with a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L is the risk of cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, obtaining an ECG to monitor the heart’s electrical activity is the most urgent and appropriate action. Once the immediate risk is addressed, further laboratory tests, including serum sodium levels, can be conducted as part of the overall assessment and management plan.
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