A nurse working in the perioperative area is reviewing the Quality and Safety Education in Nursing (QSEN) competencies. Which of the foIIowing competencies should the nurse identify as the priority when caring for a client during the perioperative period?

A. Inform the client that the recovery nurse will instruct them how to manage postoperative pain:

This is an important aspect of postoperative care, but it is typically addressed by the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or recovery nurse after surgery rather than in the preoperative education phase. While pain management education is crucial, the focus of preoperative education is usually on what to expect before, during, and immediately after surgery.

B. Remind the client they will return to their room after surgery:

This information is part of the preoperative instructions and helps alleviate anxiety by providing clarity about the post-surgical process. However, it may not be the most critical aspect of preoperative education compared to other options.

C. Provide instructions about how to cough and deep breathe effectively:

This is a key nursing intervention to include in preoperative education. Teaching the client how to cough and deep breathe effectively helps prevent postoperative complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia. These breathing techniques are typically taught preoperatively to ensure the client understands and can perform them correctly after surgery.

D. Notify the client that they will receive a food tray in the recovery room:

While it's important for the client to understand the postoperative diet plan, including any dietary restrictions or instructions, this information is usually provided after surgery rather than in the preoperative education phase.

A. Excessive scarring:

Excessive scarring is not an example of a first-degree burn. It typically occurs in more severe burns that affect deeper layers of the skin, such as second-degree or third-degree burns. Second-degree burns extend into the dermis, while third-degree burns damage all layers of the skin and can lead to significant scarring. First-degree burns, on the other hand, only affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and usually do not result in excessive scarring.

B. Blistering from flames:

Blistering from flames is more characteristic of a second-degree burn rather than a first-degree burn. Second-degree burns involve damage to both the epidermis and part of the dermis, which can result in blister formation. These burns are often caused by direct contact with flames, hot liquids, or steam.

C. Blackened dead skin:

Blackened dead skin is indicative of a third-degree burn, which is the most severe type of burn. Third-degree burns damage all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and sometimes underlying tissues. The skin may appear charred or blackened, and these burns often require medical intervention, such as skin grafting, due to the extent of tissue damage.

D. A sunburn:

A sunburn is an example of a first-degree burn. It occurs due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, leading to redness, pain, and mild swelling of the skin. First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and typically heal within a few days without significant scarring or blistering. Applying soothing lotions, staying hydrated, and avoiding further sun exposure can help manage sunburns.