A nurse is monitoring a postoperative client who is unable to respond to questions. Which of the following nonverbal behaviors should the nurse identify as an indication that the client is experiencing pain? (Select all that apply)

The correct answer is: a. Edema.

Choice A: Edema

Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues. It is a common sign of inflammation and infection. When a wound becomes infected, the body’s immune response can cause increased fluid accumulation in the affected area, leading to noticeable swelling. This swelling is often accompanied by redness, warmth, and pain, which are classic signs of infection.

Choice B: Petechiae

Petechiae are small, red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin. They are not typically associated with wound infections but rather with conditions that cause bleeding or clotting disorders. Petechiae do not indicate an infection but rather a different underlying issue that may require further investigation.

Choice C: Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin reaction that causes itchy welts. It is usually a result of an allergic reaction and is not a sign of wound infection. Urticaria is characterized by raised, red, itchy bumps on the skin and does not typically occur in response to an infected wound.

Choice D: Crusting over granulated tissue

Crusting over granulated tissue is a normal part of the wound healing process. Granulation tissue forms as the wound heals, and a crust or scab may develop over it to protect the new tissue underneath. This is not an indication of infection but rather a sign that the wound is progressing through the healing stages.

Choice A reason: Decreased energy is a common symptom of OSA due to disrupted sleep patterns and the body's struggle to maintain adequate oxygen levels during apneic episodes. This can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

Choice B reason: While thyroid disease can be associated with sleep disorders, it is not a direct finding of OSA. However, hypothyroidism can contribute to the development of OSA due to myxedematous changes leading to airway obstruction.

Choice C reason: Pneumonia is not a direct finding of OSA. However, individuals with OSA may be at increased risk for respiratory infections due to repeated episodes of upper airway collapse during sleep, which can lead to aspiration.

Choice D reason: Hypotension is generally not associated with OSA. In fact, OSA is more commonly linked with hypertension due to the sympathetic nervous system activation that occurs with each apneic episode.