A nurse is caring for a client who is 4 hr postoperative following an abdominal surgery and notes that the client's abdominal incision is open and the internal organs are protruding. After contacting the rapid response team, which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

The correct answer is choice A. The nurse should instruct the client to take iron supplements between meals for maximum absorption. Choice B is incorrect because antacids can decrease the absorption of iron. Choice C is incorrect because orange-colored stools may occur after the first dose of iron. Choice D is incorrect because milk can also decrease the absorption of iron. Choice B is not correct because antacids can decrease the absorption of iron. Choice C is not correct because orange-colored stools may occur after the first dose of iron. Choice D is not correct because milk can also decrease the absorption of iron.

The correct answer is: Choice A: Maintain direct pressure over the site.

Here's the rationale for each choice:

• Choice A: Maintain direct pressure over the site (CORRECT) This is the most important initial step in controlling bleeding for any patient, especially one with hemophilia who has a deficiency in clotting factors. Maintaining pressure directly on the wound helps to form a clot and stop the bleeding.
• Choice B: Check whether the bleeding has stopped While checking for bleeding cessation is important, it shouldn't be the immediate next step after applying a dressing. Maintaining pressure ensures the dressing remains effective. Once pressure is released, you can assess for continued bleeding.
• Choice C: Obtain a radial pulse Assessing the radial pulse is not directly related to managing the bleeding from the laceration. While it's a vital sign, it's not a priority in this situation.
• Choice D: Reinforce the dressing over the site While reinforcing the dressing might be necessary later if it becomes saturated with blood, maintaining direct pressure is the crucial first step.