A nurse is planning care for a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia with severe features. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to implement?

Rationale:

A. Provide 60 mL (2 oz) of fluid intake every 5 min.: Following gastric bypass surgery, the stomach pouch is very small and cannot tolerate large or frequent volumes. Giving 60 mL every 5 minutes places the client at high risk for nausea, vomiting, dumping syndrome, and anastomotic complications. Fluid intake must be introduced slowly in small sips.

B. Ambulate the client 48 hr after the procedure.: Early ambulation is essential to prevent postoperative complications such as atelectasis, venous thromboembolism, and delayed return of bowel function. Waiting 48 hours is too long; clients should begin ambulating on the day of surgery or within the first 24 hours to promote circulation.

C. Provide a soft diet on the first postoperative day.: After gastric bypass surgery, the digestive system needs time to heal and cannot tolerate solid or semi-solid foods. Clients begin with clear liquids and progress gradually to pureed, soft, and then solid diets over several weeks.

D. Measure and compare abdominal girth daily.: Monitoring abdominal girth helps detect postoperative complications such as internal bleeding, leaks, or ileus, which may present with distention or increased abdominal size. Regular measurement provides early recognition of changes that require prompt intervention.

Rationale:

A. Stair carpeting is attached with carpet tacks: Loose or improperly secured carpeting on stairs creates a significant tripping hazard, especially for clients with mobility limitations such as a hip fracture. Carpet tacks can cause the edges of the carpet to lift, increasing the risk of falls and further injury.

B. Nonessential items are stored in drawers: Storing nonessential items in drawers does not create an immediate fall risk or safety hazard. Keeping items organized in drawers can actually reduce clutter in walking areas, making the environment safer.

C. Magazines are stacked neatly on the stairs: Even neatly stacked magazines on stairs are a potential tripping hazard. However, the option specifies “neatly stacked,” which implies some order, though ideally items should not be on stairs at all. Carpet tacks pose a more immediate and hidden danger than visible items.

D. End tables are secured to the wall: Securing furniture prevents tipping and provides stability, which enhances safety for clients with mobility limitations. This measure decreases the risk of falls and does not pose a hazard.