A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who had abdominal surgery 2 days ago. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates the client is at risk for delayed wound healing?

Choice A reason: Marking drainage output every 48 hours is too infrequent to accurately assess drainage in a closed wound drainage system. Frequent monitoring (e.g., every shift) is needed to track output, detect complications like excessive bleeding, and ensure system functionality, making this intervention inadequate for assessment.
Choice B reason: Stripping the chest tube vigorously is not recommended, as it can increase intrathoracic pressure, risking tissue damage or bleeding. It does not assess drainage amount but manipulates the tube, potentially causing harm. Assessment requires observing output in the collection chamber, making this action incorrect.
Choice C reason: Maintaining the collection chamber below the client’s chest ensures proper drainage by gravity in a closed wound drainage system, like a chest tube. This position prevents backflow and allows accurate measurement of drainage output in the chamber, essential for assessing fluid loss and detecting complications like hemothorax.
Choice D reason: Adding water to the water seal chamber maintains system function but does not directly assess drainage amount. The water seal prevents air re-entry, not measures output. Assessment involves observing and recording drainage in the collection chamber, making this action irrelevant to the question’s focus.

Choice A reason: Preferring loose clothing to hide scars indicates an altered body image, as it reflects discomfort with physical changes post-mastectomy. This behavior suggests emotional distress about appearance, a common response to surgical body alterations, making it the correct indicator.
Choice B reason: Joining a support group shows proactive coping and acceptance, not necessarily an altered body image. It reflects social engagement and resilience, not distress about physical changes, making it incorrect for indicating body image concerns.
Choice C reason: Feeling confident about recovery suggests positive adjustment, not an altered body image. Confidence indicates emotional resilience rather than distress about physical appearance post-mastectomy, making this statement incorrect for this concern.
Choice D reason: Planning to resume exercise indicates focus on recovery and health, not body image distress. This proactive attitude reflects physical rehabilitation goals, not emotional concerns about appearance, making it incorrect for altered body image.