Patient Data

Exhibits

Click to highlight the findings that indicate the client is stable for discharge.

The client has rested well throughout the night with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device in place. Sequential devices are in place for venous thromboembolism prevention. The client ambulated 100 yards (91 meters) last night and 200 yards (183 meters) this morning. She reports pain rating of 2 on 0 to 10 scale, located in the abdomen, described as aching. She has tolerated fluids throughout the night with no nausea or vomiting.

Assessment findings

Neurological Alert and oriented times 4.

Cardiovascular WNL.

Respiratory WNL.

Gastrointestinal/Genitourinary Voided twice throughout night, urine clear amber in appearance. Reports no dysuria. No bowel movement but the client is passing gas.

Integumentary 4 abdominal incisions from laparoscopic procedure sealed with surgical glue. No drainage, redness, or edema present.

Musculoskeletal Reported chronic knee pain. 5+ strength in bilateral upper extremities, 5+ strength in bilateral lower extremities.

Choice A reason: Eating high-protein foods to achieve ideal body weight is generally a healthy practice, but it is not directly related to the management of the client's current condition involving pain in the toe.

Choice B reason: Patients with gouty arthritis should avoid acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) as it can lead to an increase in uric acid levels, potentially exacerbating gout attacks. Instead, medications that do not affect uric acid levels should be used for pain relief.

Choice C reason: Wrapping joints with an elastic bandage can provide support and reduce swelling, but it is not the primary intervention for sudden pain in the toe following an appendectomy, especially when the patient has a history of gouty arthritis.

Choice D reason: Supporting joints in an extended position while resting can provide comfort and may prevent stiffness, but it does not address the acute management of gouty arthritis or diabetic complications that could be causing toe pain.

Choice A reason: Understanding the reason for taking aspirin is crucial because it could be for a chronic condition that requires antiplatelet action, which ibuprofen does not provide. Aspirin is often prescribed for its antiplatelet effect to prevent blood clots, while ibuprofen is primarily used for pain and inflammation.

Choice B reason: While the dosage of ibuprofen is important, it is secondary to understanding the purpose of the aspirin therapy. Overdosing on ibuprofen can lead to serious side effects, but the immediate risk of stopping aspirin without a suitable substitute could be more critical.

Choice C reason: Assessing the amount of pain control is important to evaluate the effectiveness of ibuprofen as a substitute for aspirin. However, this does not address the potential risks associated with the cessation of aspirin, especially if it was prescribed for cardiovascular reasons.

Choice D reason: The presence of gastric pain could indicate an adverse reaction to ibuprofen, which is known to cause gastrointestinal issues. However, this information is not as immediately necessary as understanding the reason for aspirin therapy, which could have significant implications for the client's health.