The nurse is caring for a client that has undergone a modified left radical mastectomy with lymph node removal. Which intervention would assist in preventing lymphedema?
Avoiding arm exercise in the immediate post-op period
Instruct the client to sleep in the left lateral side lying position
Placing cool compresses on the affected arm
Elevating the affected arm on a pillow above the level of the heart
The Correct Answer is D
A. This statement is not advisable. While it is essential to avoid strenuous activity initially, gentle arm exercises and range-of-motion activities are generally encouraged as soon as possible to promote circulation and help prevent lymphedema. Immobilization can actually increase the risk of lymphedema.
B. This intervention is not recommended for preventing lymphedema. Sleeping on the side of the surgery (in this case, the left side) can put pressure on the affected arm and may not promote proper lymphatic drainage. Clients are often advised to sleep on their back or to position themselves in a way that does not compress the affected arm.
C. This intervention can provide temporary relief if there is swelling or discomfort, but it does not effectively prevent lymphedema. While cool compresses might help reduce inflammation, they are not a primary measure for lymphedema prevention.
D. This is the most effective intervention for preventing lymphedema. Elevating the affected arm helps facilitate lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of fluid accumulation. Keeping the arm elevated above heart level encourages proper circulation and helps manage swelling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding and is typically contraindicated in patients who have undergone procedures like bone marrow aspiration. Instead, acetaminophen may be recommended for pain relief, as it does not have blood-thinning effects.
B. After a bone marrow aspiration, the donor is typically advised to lie flat or in a comfortable position to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of bleeding. High Fowler's position may not provide the necessary comfort or support needed post-procedure.
C. Applying direct pressure to the puncture site is a critical intervention to minimize bleeding and promote clotting at the site of the aspiration. The nurse should apply pressure for a sufficient amount of time as per protocol.
D. Monitoring vital signs is important after any invasive procedure to detect any complications early, such as bleeding or signs of shock. Documenting vital signs also ensures continuity of care.
E. This choice is not applicable immediately after bone marrow aspiration for a donor. Neutropenic precautions are typically implemented for patients who have low white blood cell counts due to chemotherapy or other conditions. Bone marrow donors do not require these precautions immediately after donation unless there is a specific concern for infection or a significant drop in white blood cell counts.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Trisomy 21 is a chromosomal disorder resulting in Down syndrome. While individuals with Down syndrome have an increased risk of developing certain leukemias (such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia), it is not directly associated with CML.
B. Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, leading to intellectual disability and other developmental issues. It is not associated with CML or any form of leukemia. This option is unrelated to the genetic abnormalities seen in CML.
C. The BRCA1 gene mutation is associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers. While mutations in BRCA1 can affect cancer susceptibility, they are not linked to Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia. Thus, this option does not apply to CML.
D. The Philadelphia chromosome is a specific genetic abnormality found in the majority of patients with CML. It results from a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22, creating the BCR-ABL fusion gene, which produces a tyrosine kinase that drives the proliferation of leukemic cells.
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