A nurse is reinforcing discharge instructions with a parent of a 6-year-old child who has just had a tonsillectomy. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of postoperative care?
"It's okay for my child to have plenty of ice cream."
"I'll help my child gargle with salt water a few times a day."
"It's okay for my child to ride his bike in a few days."
"I'll call the doctor if my child is swallowing continuously."
The Correct Answer is D
A. ``It's okay for my child to have plenty of ice cream.": While ice cream is soft and soothing, it may increase mucus production. Dairy products are contraindicated post tonsillectomy.
B. "I'll help my child gargle with salt water a few times a day.": Gargling is contraindicated post-tonsillectomy because it can dislodge clots and increase the risk of bleeding.
C. "It's okay for my child to ride his bike in a few days.": Strenuous activity should be avoided to reduce the risk of bleeding.
D. "I'll call the doctor if my child is swallowing continuously.": Continuous swallowing can indicate bleeding, a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sodium 142 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for sodium (135-145 mEq/L) and does not indicate a problem that needs immediate attention.
B. Urine specific gravity 1.025: This value is on the higher end of the normal range for urine specific gravity (1.010-1.030) and indicates concentration of urine, which can occur in mild dehydration. It is not critical but indicates the need for monitoring.
C. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This is below the normal range for potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac issues and muscle weakness. It is a priority to correct this imbalance to prevent complications.
D. Blood glucose 110 mg/dL: This is within the normal range for blood glucose levels (70-110 mg/dL) for children and does not indicate an immediate concern related to dehydration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Keep the client's leg in a dependent position. Keeping the leg in a dependent position can increase swelling and delay healing. The leg should be elevated to reduce swelling and promote circulation.
B. Use a hair dryer on a hot setting to dry the cast. Using a hair dryer on a hot setting can cause burns and does not effectively dry a plaster cast. Plaster casts take time to dry and should be air-dried naturally.
C. Discourage the client from ambulating: Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, as long as it is safe and the healthcare provider has approved it. Completely discouraging ambulation is not generally recommended unless specified by a doctor.
D. Perform a neurovascular check of the lower extremities. Neurovascular checks are essential to ensure that there is adequate blood flow and nerve function below the cast. This includes checking for pain, pallor, pulse, paresthesia, and paralysis (the 5 P’s). This helps detect complications like compartment syndrome or decreased circulation early.
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