A PACU nurse is monitoring the drainage from a client's NG tube following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings in the first postoperative hour should the nurse report to the provider?

Choice A Reason:

Placing the client in high-Fowler's position is the appropriate action. When administering peritoneal dialysis, the nurse should place the client in a high-Fowler's position. This position helps promote the flow of dialysate into and out of the peritoneal cavity and assists with proper drainage. The high-Fowler's position allows for gravity to aid in the movement of fluid and helps prevent leakage of fluid back into the catheter.

Choice B Reason:

Chilling the dialysate before administration is not necessary and could cause discomfort to the client. Dialysate should be warmed to body temperature before use.

Choice C Reason:

Hanging the drainage bag below the client's abdomen is incorrect. The drainage bag should be positioned below the level of the abdomen to allow for proper drainage by gravity, but it should not be hung too low as this can lead to excessive drainage and dehydration.

Choice D Reason:

Using clean technique to access the catheter is incorrect. Sterile technique is required when accessing the peritoneal dialysis catheter to prevent infection. Peritoneal dialysis involves direct access to the peritoneal cavity, which is considered a sterile body cavity.

Choice A Reason:

Administer a sedative medication is incorrect. Administering a sedative can help the client feel more comfortable during the procedure, but ensuring allergy safety comes first.

Choice B Reason:

Determine whether the client has an allergy to local anaesthetics is correct. The priority intervention for the nurse is to determine whether the client has an allergy to local anaesthetics. Local anaesthetics are typically used to numb the area before a thoracentesis, and ensuring the safety of the client is essential. An allergy to local anaesthetics can result in serious adverse reactions, so it's crucial to identify any allergies before proceeding with the procedure.

Choice C Reason:

Describe the sensations the client will feel during the procedure is incorrect. Providing information about the sensations is important for client education and comfort, but verifying allergies is more critical.

Choice D Reason:

Reinforce the importance of lying still during the procedure - Encouraging the client to lie still is important for the procedure's success and client safety, but confirming allergies takes priority.