During general surgery, a nurse observes tachycardia, muscle rigidity, respiratory acidosis, and hyperthermia in a patient. Which complication of surgery does the nurse suspect?

Choice A reason: Purple lesions could be associated with more severe venous disease or other conditions, not necessarily minor chronic venous disease.

Choice B reason: Ankle edema is a common finding in chronic venous disease due to the pooling of blood in the lower extremities.

Choice C reason: Telangiectasias, also known as spider veins, are commonly seen in chronic venous disease as they are small, visible blood vessels that can be part of the condition.

Choice D reason: Palpable nodules are not typically associated with minor chronic venous disease and could indicate other medical issues.

Choice A reason: Using the incentive spirometer is important, but it is not specifically related to deep breathing and coughing exercises.

Choice B reason: Breathing deeply and coughing every 4 hours is part of postoperative care, but it does not indicate understanding of the technique to protect the incision.

Choice C reason: Splinting the incision with a pillow while coughing is a recommended technique to support the incision and reduce pain during coughing, indicating an understanding of the instructions.

Choice D reason: Lying flat is not recommended for deep breathing and coughing exercises as it can inhibit lung expansion and is not conducive to effective coughing.