A nurse is planning care for a client who has acute glomerulonephritis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

Choice A reason:
The inability to move toes can be an early sign that a cast is too tight. This symptom may indicate that the cast is impinging on nerves or blood vessels, leading to decreased motor function. It is essential to address this immediately to prevent further complications such as permanent damage or compartment syndrome.

Choice B reason:
Edema, or swelling of the toes, can occur if a cast is too tight, but it may not be the first sign observed. Swelling is a response to increased pressure in the tissues and can develop over time as fluid accumulates. While it is a concern, it often follows other symptoms such as changes in sensation or movement.

Choice C reason:
Pallor of the toes, indicating reduced blood flow, can be a sign of a cast that is too tight. However, pallor may not be as immediately noticeable as the inability to move toes or changes in sensation. It is still a critical sign that requires prompt evaluation and possible adjustment of the cast.

Choice D reason:
A change in the temperature of the toes, such as them becoming cooler to the touch, can suggest impaired blood flow due to a tight cast. This sign, along with pallor, may develop after other symptoms such as numbness or motor impairment.

Choice A reason:

While pulmonary function studies are an important part of the preoperative assessment and postoperative follow-up for lung cancer patients, they are not typically something a patient would be immediately prepared for post-lobectomy. These studies are usually scheduled for a later date to assess the impact of the surgery on lung function.

Choice B reason:

A sternal incision is not commonly associated with a lobectomy, which involves an incision in the chest wall, not the sternum. Sternal incisions are more often related to procedures that require access to the heart or the central chest area, such as open-heart surgery.

Choice C reason:

Moderate pain is expected after any major surgical procedure, including a lobectomy. However, pain management is a standard part of postoperative care, and patients are typically informed about pain control measures rather than being prepared to expect pain as a postoperative event.

Choice D reason:

The placement of a chest tube is a standard part of care following a lobectomy. The chest tube allows for drainage of fluid and air from the pleural space, ensuring proper lung expansion and preventing complications such as pneumothorax. Patients should be educated about the chest tube's purpose, care, and the sensations they may experience while the tube is in place.