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 A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Difficulty swallowing is a sign of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the throat and tongue, leading to airway obstruction and respiratory distress.
Choice B reason: Petechial rash on the abdomen is not a sign of anaphylaxis, but rather a sign of thrombocytopenia, which is a low platelet count that can cause bleeding under the skin.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is not a sign of anaphylaxis, but rather a sign of high blood pressure, which can be caused by various factors such as stress, pain, or kidney disease.
Choice D reason: Bilateral tinnitus is not a sign of anaphylaxis, but rather a sign of hearing loss or damage, which can be caused by exposure to loud noise, ear infection, or medication side effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The nurse should contact the provider to clarify the prescription because applying heat to an area with impaired sensation can cause burns or tissue damage. The nurse should also educate the client about the risks of using heat therapy and alternative methods to relieve pain.
Choice B reason: The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test is used to assess the sensation of light touch in clients with peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should perform this test before applying any intervention that could affect the skin integrity, such as heat, cold, or compression.
Choice C reason: Observing the skin 10 min after the start of treatment is not sufficient to prevent complications from heat therapy. The nurse should monitor the skin continuously and check for signs of redness, blisters, or burns.
Choice D reason: Applying the heating pad as prescribed by the provider is not appropriate for a client with diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.
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