A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has gastroenteritis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

To determine if the child is experiencing subcostal retractions, check the area beneath the ribcage.

D - Subcostal Area:

Subcostal retractions occur below the ribs and are a sign of respiratory distress, indicating increased effort to breathe.

Observing this area can reveal inward movement during inspiration, suggesting difficulty in breathing, often seen in asthma exacerbations.

Rationale

A - Incorrect:

This area is near the clavicle and not related to subcostal retractions.

B - Incorrect:

This is the intercostal area, which can also show retractions but is not subcostal.

C - Incorrect:

This area is too central and does not correspond with subcostal retractions.

Focusing on D allows the nurse to assess the presence of subcostal retractions effectively.

A) Expect optimum visual acuity to return in 4 to 6 weeks: While some improvement in vision can be noted soon after cataract surgery, optimal visual acuity typically returns within 1 to 2 months. It's important to set realistic expectations for recovery. Telling the patient to expect optimum visual acuity to return in 4 to 6 weeks provides a more accurate timeframe for complete visual recovery.

B) Notify the provider if new floaters persist for more than 3 days: The presence of new floaters can be a sign of complications such as retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage. However, patients are generally advised to notify their provider immediately if they notice any new floaters, flashes of light, or a sudden decrease in vision, rather than waiting for three days. Immediate notification can lead to prompt evaluation and treatment if necessary.

C) Take aspirin every 4 to 6 hr for mild discomfort: Aspirin is generally avoided postoperatively due to its blood-thinning properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Instead, non-aspirin pain relievers like acetaminophen are usually recommended to manage mild discomfort after cataract surgery, as they do not carry the same risk of bleeding complications.

D) Avoid lifting objects that weigh 9.07 kg (20 lb) or more: Patients are advised to avoid lifting heavy objects and engaging in strenuous activities after cataract surgery to prevent increased intraocular pressure, which can interfere with healing and potentially cause complications such as bleeding or dislocation of the intraocular lens. This instruction helps ensure the safety and proper healing of the surgical site.