A nurse is caring for a client who will be placed on strict bed rest after surgery. The nurse should educate the client on the use of an incentive spirometer. The use of an incentive spirometer would prevent which postoperative complication?
Urinary tract infection
Deep vein thrombosis
Constipation
Atelectasis
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. While strict bed rest can increase the risk of UTIs due to factors like catheter use and reduced mobility, the use of an incentive spirometer does not directly prevent UTIs. Instead, preventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and, if necessary, using catheters properly.
Choice B Reason:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. This can occur due to prolonged immobility, such as strict bed rest after surgery. Preventing DVT involves measures like using compression stockings, administering anticoagulant medications, and encouraging leg exercises. An incentive spirometer, which is used to improve lung function, does not directly prevent DVT.
Choice C Reason:
Constipation is a common issue for patients on bed rest due to reduced physical activity and changes in diet. Preventing constipation involves ensuring adequate hydration, providing a high-fiber diet, and encouraging as much physical activity as possible. The use of an incentive spirometer, which focuses on respiratory function, does not directly address constipation.
Choice D Reason:
Atelectasis is a condition where the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients on strict bed rest, due to shallow breathing and reduced lung expansion. The use of an incentive spirometer encourages deep breathing and helps to keep the alveoli open, thereby preventing atelectasis. This is why the incentive spirometer is an essential tool for postoperative respiratory care.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While lift pads can help reduce the risk of workplace injuries for staff, such as pulled muscles, this is not their primary purpose. The main goal of using lift pads is to protect the client from injury during repositioning. Lift pads distribute the client’s weight more evenly, making it easier for staff to move them without straining themselves.
Choice B reason: Lift pads are not designed to absorb urinary incontinence or contain stool. There are specific products like incontinence pads and briefs for managing urinary and fecal incontinence. Lift pads are primarily used to assist with the safe repositioning of immobile clients.
Choice C reason: The primary purpose of lift pads is to help prevent friction and shearing when repositioning the client. Friction and shearing can cause skin damage and pressure ulcers, especially in immobile clients. Lift pads reduce the risk of these injuries by allowing smoother and safer movements.
Choice D reason: Lift pads do not prevent clients from being diaphoretic (sweating excessively). Diaphoresis can be managed through other means, such as adjusting room temperature, using fans, or providing appropriate clothing and bedding. Lift pads are not intended for this purpose.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“Prevents pressure ulcers” is incorrect. While positioning can help prevent pressure ulcers, the orthopneic position is specifically used to aid in breathing rather than to prevent pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are typically managed by regularly repositioning the client and using pressure-relieving devices.
Choice B Reason:
“Supports hip extension” is incorrect. The orthopneic position does not primarily support hip extension. This position involves sitting up and leaning forward, which does not significantly affect the hips.
Choice C Reason:
“Facilitates breathing” is correct. The orthopneic position, also known as the tripod position, helps to improve breathing in clients with COPD. By leaning forward and resting the arms on a table or knees, the diaphragm can move more freely, and accessory muscles of respiration are better utilized, reducing the work of breathing.
Choice D Reason:
“Promotes urinary elimination” is incorrect. The orthopneic position is not intended to promote urinary elimination. Urinary elimination is typically managed through other interventions such as ensuring adequate hydration and, if necessary, using a catheter.
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