The nurse is caring for a client post-operatively following an open (incisional) cholecystectomy. Which would be the priority nursing intervention for this client?
Administer a narcotic analgesic every two hours.
Encourage a low-fat diet the first post-op day.
Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer.
Ambulate the client in the hall the first post-op evening.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While administering a narcotic analgesic may be necessary for pain management, it does not address the immediate post-operative needs related to respiratory function and mobility.
B. Encouraging a low-fat diet is important after a cholecystectomy, but this can be addressed after ensuring the client's respiratory function and mobilization are stable.
C. Encouraging the use of the incentive spirometer is the priority intervention as it promotes lung expansion, reduces the risk of atelectasis, and improves oxygenation, which is crucial in the post-operative period.
D. While ambulating the client is important for recovery and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, it should follow ensuring that the patient is able to effectively use the incentive spirometer to maintain respiratory function first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A garden salad may contain raw vegetables, which can harbor bacteria and pose a risk of infection for a client with neutropenia, making this the concerning choice.
B. Applesauce is typically safe as it is a processed food that has been cooked, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
C. A baked potato is also safe as long as it is properly cooked and handled, which minimizes the risk of foodborne illness.
D. Steamed broccoli is safe because the cooking process eliminates harmful bacteria, making it a better choice for someone with neutropenia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The absence of bowel sounds shortly after surgery is not uncommon, especially within the first few hours, and does not necessarily indicate a complication at this time.
B. An SPO2 of 90% while the client is asleep may warrant attention, but it is not as critical as signs of a potential surgical complication. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and consider interventions, but immediate notification to the surgeon is not required.
C. Increasing abdominal distention is a concerning sign that may indicate complications such as an anastomotic leak or bowel obstruction, which requires immediate evaluation and possible intervention by the surgeon.
D. A small amount of green-tinged fluid from the nasogastric tube is generally expected postoperatively and does not necessarily indicate a problem, thus does not require immediate notification of the surgeon.
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