A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has a Jackson-Pratt drain in place. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain the client on bed rest.
Decrease the client's fluid intake.
Apply cold compresses to the site.
Place the right leg in a dependent position.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action, as it can increase the risk of thromboembolism, infection, or atelectasis after surgery. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and exercise as tolerated by the client.
Choice B reason: Decreasing the client's fluid intake is not an appropriate action, as it can cause dehydration, constipation, or impaired wound healing after surgery. The nurse should encourage adequate hydration and nutrition to promote recovery and drainage.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to the site is not an appropriate action, as it can cause vasoconstriction, inflammation, or pain at the site. The nurse should apply warm compresses to the site to facilitate drainage and reduce swelling.
Choice D reason: Placing the right leg in a dependent position is an appropriate action, as it can promote gravity-assisted drainage from the site and prevent fluid accumulation or infection. The nurse should place the drain below the level of the wound and secure it to prevent dislodgment or tension.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The thigh-high stockings should reach just below the gluteal folds, not above them. If the stockings are too high, they can cause constriction and impair circulation.
Choice B reason: Reapplying the stockings before getting out of bed is an appropriate action. The client should remove the stockings at night and inspect the skin for any signs of irritation or breakdown. The client should also elevate the legs for 15 minutes before putting on the stockings to reduce edema and improve venous return.
Choice C reason: Flexing the toes when applying the stockings is not an appropriate action. The client should point the toes and foot downward when applying the stockings to prevent wrinkles or folds that can cause pressure ulcers.
Choice D reason: Rolling down knee-high stockings slightly to provide comfort is not an appropriate action. The client should avoid rolling or folding the stockings as this can create a tourniquet effect and impair blood flow.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect. The nurse should don clean gloves before removing the dressing, and then change to sterile gloves before applying the new dressing.
Choice B: This is correct. The nurse should offer the client pain medication before the procedure, as changing a dressing for a stage III pressure ulcer can be very painful.
Choice C: This is incorrect. The nurse should prepare the sterile dressing supplies just before the dressing change, not 30 min before, to prevent contamination.
Choice D: This is incorrect. The nurse should not disinfect the wound bed with alcohol, as this can damage the healthy tissue and delay healing. The nurse should use a saline solution or an antiseptic solution as prescribed.
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