A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a right radical mastectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent the development of lymphedema?
Obtain blood pressure readings using the client's right arm.
Limit range-of-motion exercises with the affected arm.
Keep both arms below the level of the client's heart.
Use the client's left arm to obtain blood samples.
The Correct Answer is D
The client had a right radical mastectomy, which can lead to lymphedema, a buildup of fluid that can cause swelling in the arm. Using the client's left arm to obtain blood samples can help prevent injury to the affected arm and reduce the risk of lymphedema. Obtaining blood pressure readings with the client's left arm is also recommended. Range-of-motion exercises are important to prevent stiffness, and elevating the affected arm can help reduce swelling.
A: Obtaining blood pressure readings with the client's right arm can cause injury and increase the risk of lymphedema.
B: Limiting range-of-motion exercises can lead to stiffness and may not prevent lymphedema.
C: Keeping both arms below the level of the client's heart can help reduce swelling, but does not directly prevent lymphedema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A platelet count of 60,000/mm² is below the expected reference range, and the nurse should report this value to the provider. Ammonia, aspartate aminotransferase, and bilirubin values are within expected reference ranges and do not require further reporting.
Other choices are not correct because:
A. Ammonia 55 mcg/dL: Is within the expected reference range and does not require further reporting.
C. Aspartate aminotransferase 34 units/L: Is within the expected reference range and does not require further reporting.
D. Bilirubin 1.0 mg/dL: Is within the expected reference range and does not require further reporting.
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
Running cool water over the affected area will help to decrease pain and prevent further tissue damage. Allowing the affected area to remain open to air will help to promote healing and prevent infection.
A. "Apply ice to the larger blisters" is an incorrect answer because applying ice can cause further damage to the skin and delay healing.
B. "Administer ibuprofen for pain" is an incorrect answer because the nurse cannot administer medications without a physician's order.
C. "Maintain skin integrity over the blisters" is an incorrect answer because maintaining skin integrity over the blisters can cause further damage and delay healing.
Explanation: The nurse should run cool water over the affected area and allow it to remain open to the air to promote healing and prevent infection. Applying ice or medication without a physician's order can cause further damage and delay healing.
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