A nurse is caring for a postoperative client and observes evisceration of the abdominal surgical wound. After covering the wound with a sterile, saline-soaked dressing, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Large pieces of furniture do not necessarily create a significant risk for falls unless they are poorly placed or obstructing pathways. While they can potentially cause accidents, the likelihood of tripping over them is generally lower compared to other hazards.

Choice B rationale:

A bedside table next to the bed is not a significant fall risk factor. In fact, having a bedside table can be beneficial for the client, as it provides a convenient surface for placing items that the client might need during the night.

Choice C rationale:

Raised toilet seats, although they may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues, are typically installed to aid those with difficulty sitting down or standing up. They are not a primary risk factor for falls, especially when compared to other more hazardous factors.

Choice D rationale:

Throw rugs on hardwood floors are a significant fall risk factor, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility problems. The rugs can easily shift or bunch up, causing someone to trip and fall. Hardwood floors can also become slippery, and the combination of a throw rug on such a surface increases the risk of accidents. The rationale behind this choice is grounded in the potential for tripping and slipping hazards that these throw rugs can introduce, especially in individuals who might already have balance or mobility issues.

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale: Placing a sterile kit on the overbed table above waist level maintains the sterility of the field. This position ensures that the kit is not contaminated by lower surfaces or inadvertent touch, which is essential for preventing infection during dressing changes.

Choice B rationale: Opening the outermost flap of the sterile kit toward their body increases the risk of contaminating the sterile field. The first flap should be opened away from the body to maintain the sterility of the field and prevent contamination.

Choice C rationale: Turning their back to the sterile field when coughing is incorrect because it increases the risk of contamination. The nurse should step away from the sterile field and cough into their elbow or use a mask to maintain sterility.

Choice D rationale: Holding a package of sterile gauze 30.5 cm (12 in) above the sterile field when dropping the gauze onto the field is too high and increases the risk of contamination. The gauze should be held closer, approximately 6 inches above the field, to ensure accuracy and sterility.