A nurse is providing preoperative teaching to a client about promoting circulation during the postoperative period.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Participate in range-of-motion exercises
Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours
Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure
Place a pillow under your knees while in bed
The Correct Answer is A

This instruction will help the client to prevent venous stasis and thrombosis, which are common postoperative complications. Range-of-motion exercises promote blood circulation and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.
Choice B. “Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours.” is wrong because it is not related to promoting circulation, but rather to improving lung expansion and preventing atelectasis and pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer is also important for postoperative clients, but it does not address the question.
Choice C. “Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure.” is wrong because it is the opposite of promoting circulation.
Bed rest increases the risk of venous stasis, thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Postoperative clients should be encouraged to ambulate as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.
Choice D. “Place a pillow under your knees while in bed.” is wrong because it also impairs circulation and increases the risk of thrombosis.
Placing a pillow under the knees can cause pressure on the popliteal veins and reduce blood flow. Postoperative clients should avoid this position and keep their legs in a neutral or slightly elevated position.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When updating protocols for the use of belt restraints, the nurse manager should include the following guideline:
A) Document the client’s condition every 15 min
Frequent documentation of the client's condition and the need for restraint is essential to monitor their well-being and ensure that restraints are used only when necessary. The other options are not recommended:
B) Requesting a PRN restraint prescription for clients who are aggressive is not appropriate because restraints should only be used when there is an immediate risk to the patient or others, and obtaining a PRN prescription for restraints is generally not standard practice.
C) Attaching the restraint to the bed's side rails is not recommended because restraints should be used as a last resort, and there are specific guidelines for restraint application to ensure patient safety.
D) Removing the client's restraint every is not appropriate either. Restraints should only be removed when the client's condition improves, and alternatives to restraint have been explored, or when it's deemed necessary for the patient's safety and well-being following established protocols and guidelines. The option seems incomplete and does not specify the appropriate time frame for removal.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. BP 150/92 mm Hg:
- This blood pressure reading is elevated and not a therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate. In the context of preeclampsia, the goal is usually to lower blood pressure to prevent complications.
B. Pulse rate 100/min:
- The pulse rate of 100/min is not a specific therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate. However, magnesium sulfate may cause a decrease in heart rate, so monitoring for bradycardia would be important.
C. Flushed face:
- A flushed face is not a specific therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate. Facial flushing may be associated with other factors, but it is not a primary consideration when monitoring the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate in the context of preeclampsia.
D. Negative clonus:
- Negative clonus is the correct therapeutic effect to monitor. Clonus refers to a series of involuntary, rhythmic, and repetitive muscle contractions and relaxations. In the context of magnesium sulfate administration for preeclampsia, negative clonus (the absence of abnormal reflexes) is a sign that the magnesium levels are within the therapeutic range, helping to prevent seizures.
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