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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Wiping the top of the feeding container with alcohol is not a priority action, as it is not essential for infection control or safety. The nurse should use a sterile technique when opening and handling the feeding container.
Choice B reason: Placing the head of the client's bed at a 30° angle or higher is a priority action, as it can prevent aspiration or regurgitation of the feeding solution into the lungs, which can cause pneumonia or respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Rinsing the feeding bag with water once the feeding is complete is not a priority action, as it can be done after ensuring that the client has tolerated the feeding well and has no signs of complications.
Choice D reason: Documenting the client's response to the feeding is not a priority action, as it can be done after performing other interventions and assessments that are more urgent and important for the client's well-being.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Keeping both arms below the level of the client's heart can increase venous pressure and fluid accumulation in the affected arm, which can lead to lymphedema.
Choice B reason: After a mastectomy, it’s important to avoid procedures like blood draws, injections, or blood pressure measurements on the side where the surgery was performed to prevent lymphedema. Therefore, using the client’s left arm for blood samples is a preventive measure.
Choice C reason: Obtaining blood pressure readings using the client's right arm is an incorrect action that can increase lymphatic fluid accumulation and impair circulation in the affected arm.
Choice D reason: Limiting range-of-motion exercises with the affected arm is an incorrect action that can decrease lymphatic drainage and increase swelling in the affected arm. The nurse should encourage the client to perform gentle exercises, such as squeezing a soft ball or raising and lowering the arm, to promote lymphatic flow and prevent stiffness.
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