The nurse is most concerned about which of these findings in a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?

Choice A reason: Obtaining a PAPR mask is not a step in preparing a sterile field. A PAPR mask is a powered airpurifying respirator that protects the wearer from airborne contaminants. It is not required for setting up a sterile field, unless the client has a highly infectious disease.

Choice B reason: Do not turn away from the sterile field is a step in preparing a sterile field. Turning away from the sterile field can contaminate the field or the items on it. The nurse should always face the sterile field and keep it in view.

Choice C reason: Add items to the sterile field by dropping them gently is a step in preparing a sterile field. Dropping items gently onto the sterile field prevents splashing or touching the field or the items. The nurse should open the sterile packages away from the field and drop the items close to the edge of the field.

Choice D reason: Covering the sterile field once it is set up is not a step in preparing a sterile field. Covering the sterile field can compromise its sterility and create moisture that can harbor microorganisms. The nurse should not cover the sterile field unless it is necessary to move it or store it for later use.

Choice E reason: Preparing the client before setting up the sterile field is a step in preparing a sterile field. Preparing the client involves explaining the procedure, obtaining consent, providing privacy, and positioning the client. The nurse should prepare the client before setting up the sterile field to avoid leaving the field unattended or exposing it to the client's body fluids.

Choice A reason: Send the client back to surgery is not the nurse's next action, because it is premature and inappropriate. Sending the client back to surgery requires a medical order and a clear indication of the need for surgical intervention. The nurse cannot make this decision without first assessing the wound and contacting the provider.

Choice B reason: Call the provider immediately is not the nurse's next action, because it is not the most urgent and relevant. Calling the provider immediately is an important action, but it should be done after assessing the wound and gathering the necessary data. The nurse should be able to report the findings of the wound assessment, such as the size, shape, color, amount, and type of drainage, as well as the vital signs, pain level, and mental status of the client.

Choice C reason: Assess the wound for signs of dehiscence is the nurse's next action, because it is the most urgent and relevant. Assessing the wound for signs of dehiscence is a priority action, because it can identify the cause and severity of the problem. Dehiscence is a complication that occurs when the surgical incision splits open or separates, which can cause increased drainage, pain, and infection. Dehiscence can be caused by factors such as infection, poor wound healing, excessive strain, or trauma. Dehiscence can be detected by inspecting the wound for gaps, edges, or protrusions.

Choice D reason: Prepare to culture the wound is not the nurse's next action, because it is not the most urgent and relevant. Preparing to culture the wound is a possible action, but it should be done after assessing the wound and contacting the provider. Culturing the wound is a procedure that involves collecting a sample of the wound drainage and sending it to the laboratory for analysis, which can help identify the type and source of infection. Culturing the wound requires a medical order and a sterile technique.