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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Shaving the client from axillae to groin is not necessary, as it has no relation to the procedure and can cause skin irritation or infection.
Choice B reason: Administering a cleansing enema is not required, as it does not affect the upper gastrointestinal tract that is examined by the procedure. The client should fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach.
Choice C reason: Having the client drink contrast medium is not indicated, as it can interfere with the visualization of the mucosa and lesions by the endoscope. The client may receive a local anesthetic spray or gargle to numb the throat and a sedative to relax and reduce discomfort during the procedure.
Choice D reason: Ensuring the signed consent is in the medical record is an essential action, as it indicates that the client has been informed about the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure and has agreed to undergo it voluntarily.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Passing of flatus is not a reliable indicator of colostomy function, as it can occur even when there is an obstruction or ischemia in the bowel.
Choice B reason: Stoma is pinkish-red is a sign of a healthy and well-perfused colostomy, as it indicates that the blood supply to the bowel segment is adequate and there is no necrosis or infection.
Choice C reason: Tolerating a clear liquid diet is not a specific indicator of colostomy function, as it does not reflect the amount or consistency of the stool output.
Choice D reason: Absent bowel sounds are not a normal finding for a colostomy, as they can indicate a paralytic ileus or a bowel obstruction, which can cause complications such as distension, pain, or perforation.
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