A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client following a modified left mastectomy. Which statements by the client indicate an understanding of the teaching?
"I will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible."
"I will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander."
"should expect less than 25 mL of secretions per day in the drainage devices."
"I will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
"will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible": This statement is incorrect because after a mastectomy, it's important to promote full range of motion in the affected arm to prevent complications like contractures and lymphedema.
Choice B reason:
“will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander" This is the correct statement. Following a modified radical mastectomy with a breast expander, additional saline is often added gradually to the expander to stretch the skin and muscle for reconstruction. The waiting period between saline additions allows for healing and proper tissue expansion. This statement indicates that the client understands the postoperative care and timeline.
Choice C reason:
"should expect less than 25 ml of secretions per day in the drainage devices": This statement is not accurate because the drainage amount can vary, and 25 ml per day might not be an accurate estimate.
Choice D reason:
"will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight": This statement is not appropriate, especially shortly after surgery. Gradual and gentle strength-building exercises are recommended, and using a 15-pound weight could be too strenuous and potentially harmful.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
"will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible": This statement is incorrect because after a mastectomy, it's important to promote full range of motion in the affected arm to prevent complications like contractures and lymphedema.
Choice B reason:
“will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander" This is the correct statement. Following a modified radical mastectomy with a breast expander, additional saline is often added gradually to the expander to stretch the skin and muscle for reconstruction. The waiting period between saline additions allows for healing and proper tissue expansion. This statement indicates that the client understands the postoperative care and timeline.
Choice C reason:
"should expect less than 25 ml of secretions per day in the drainage devices": This statement is not accurate because the drainage amount can vary, and 25 ml per day might not be an accurate estimate.
Choice D reason:
"will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight": This statement is not appropriate, especially shortly after surgery. Gradual and gentle strength-building exercises are recommended, and using a 15-pound weight could be too strenuous and potentially harmful.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice Areason:
Placing pillows under the client's knees might be useful for comfort, but it doesn't directly address the risk of DVT.
Choice Breason:
Discouraging leg exercises while in bed is not recommended because it can lead to decreased circulation and an increased risk of blood clot formation.
Choice C reason:
Applying compression stockings to the lower extremities is recommendable. After an open cholecystectomy surgery, the client is at risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to reduced mobility and surgical trauma. Applying compression stockings to the lower extremities can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clot formation.
Choice D reason:
Avoiding the use of anticoagulants is not recommendable, if prescribed by the healthcare provider, could be detrimental in preventing postoperative complications like DVT. Anticoagulants are often used to prevent clot formation in high-risk surgical patients.
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