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?

The correct answer is C.

Choice A reason: Walking on the client’s right side is incorrect because the nurse should walk on the client’s left side. This is the weaker side and the side where support is most needed.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client to look down at their feet when ambulating is incorrect because the client should be instructed to look straight ahead, not down at their feet, to maintain balance and prevent falls.

Choice C reason: Have the client sit on the side of the bed for at least 60 seconds before ambulating. This allows the nurse to assess the client’s tolerance and readiness for ambulation, and it helps prevent dizziness or fainting due to orthostatic hypotension.

Choice D reason: Placing the gait belt securely around the client’s lower chest is incorrect because the gait belt should be placed around the client’s waist, not the lower chest. This provides a secure grip for the nurse and allows for safer ambulation.

Choice A rationale:

Moving the client using a slider board might be appropriate for transferring clients with relatively lower weight and mobility challenges. However, in this scenario, where the client weighs 136 kg (300 lb), a more advanced transfer method is necessary to ensure the safety of both the client and the healthcare providers.

Choice B rationale:

Using an air-assisted transfer device is suitable for transferring clients with higher weight, as it helps reduce friction and strain during the transfer process. This approach ensures a smoother transfer and minimizes the risk of injury to both the client and the assistive personnel.

Choice C rationale:

Raising the bed to 5 cm (2 in) above the level of the stretcher might not provide enough clearance for a safe transfer. Additionally, the use of assistive devices is more appropriate for transferring clients with significant weight, rather than relying solely on adjusting the bed height.

Choice D rationale:

Positioning the head of the bed at 25° prior to the transfer is not directly relevant to the process of transferring a client from a bed to a stretcher. The focus should be on using appropriate equipment and techniques for safe and efficient transfer, especially considering the client's weight.