A postoperative surgical patient asks how the sequential compression boots applied in the operating room will help lower the risk of blood clots forming in the legs. The nurse's most appropriate response would be that the boots:

alternately compress and release to help blood flow through vessels.

measure pressure in the leg blood vessels and sound an alarm if pressure rises.

provide gentle continuous compression at low pressure.

provide firm continuous compression at high pressure.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Alternately compress and release to help blood flow through vessels. Sequential compression devices (SCDs) work by alternating compression and release to promote venous return, prevent stasis, and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This is the correct mechanism of action for these devices.

B. Measure pressure in the leg blood vessels and sound an alarm if pressure rises. SCDs do not measure pressure; they are designed to apply intermittent pressure to the legs to encourage circulation and prevent clot formation.

C. Provide gentle continuous compression at low pressure. SCDs apply intermittent pressure, not continuous pressure. Continuous compression would not be effective in preventing DVT as it does not allow for the periodic relaxation of veins.

D. Provide firm continuous compression at high pressure. SCDs should apply intermittent, not continuous, pressure. High pressure could potentially harm the patient’s circulation and tissues, which is why the compression is designed to be gentle and alternating.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. IV line patency: IV access is important for fluid and medication administration, but it is not the highest priority immediately postoperatively.

B. Urine output: Monitoring urine output is important for assessing kidney function and fluid balance, but airway management takes precedence.

C. Airway patency: The priority in the immediate postoperative period is maintaining a patent airway, as patients are at risk for respiratory complications such as obstruction, hypoxia, and aspiration due to anesthesia effects.

D. Wound drainage: Assessing wound drainage is necessary to monitor for excessive bleeding or infection, but it is not the top priority compared to airway patency.

A. lying supine with knees flexed. B. early ambulation C. turning to the left side. D. drinking fluids that are very hot.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Lying supine with knees flexed. Lying supine with knees flexed is a common position that can help relieve abdominal discomfort by relaxing the abdominal muscles and allowing gas to pass more easily.

B. Early ambulation: Early ambulation promotes the movement of gas through the intestines, which helps relieve bloating and discomfort. Moving helps stimulate peristalsis and reduces the risk of constipation or gas accumulation postoperatively.

C. Turning to the left side. Although turning to the left side may help with digestion, early ambulation is the most effective intervention for promoting the passage of gas and alleviating abdominal distention and discomfort.

D. Drinking fluids that are very hot: Hot liquids may irritate the stomach and intestines and are not a recommended strategy for relieving gas pain. Cool or room-temperature fluids are typically better tolerated postoperatively.

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A postoperative surgical patient asks how the sequential compression boots applied in the operating room will help lower the risk of blood clots forming in the legs. The nurse's most appropriate response would be that the boots:

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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