Which nursing action should be included in the plan of care for a patient returning to the surgical unit after a left modified radical mastectomy with dissection of axillary lymph nodes?
Post a sign at the bedside warning against venipunctures or blood pressures in the left arm.
Obtain a permanent breast prosthesis before the patient is discharged from the hospital.
Teach the patient to use the ordered patient-controlled analgesia every 10 minutes.
Insist that the patient examine the surgical incision when the initial dressings are removed.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Post-surgery, there's a risk of lymphedema in the affected arm, so avoiding procedures like venipuncture or blood pressure measurements in the left arm helps prevent complications.
Choice B rationale: Obtaining a permanent breast prosthesis is a consideration post- recovery but not an immediate priority upon return to the surgical unit.
Choice C rationale: Patient-controlled analgesia instructions are important but don't specifically address immediate care after mastectomy.
Choice D rationale: Insisting that the patient examine the surgical incision might not be appropriate upon return to the unit, and it's typically done by healthcare professionals during dressing changes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Used primarily for gout and familial Mediterranean fever, not for Paget's disease.
Choice B rationale: Alendronate is a bisphosphonate commonly used to manage Paget's disease by slowing down bone breakdown and reducing the risk of complications.
Choice C rationale: Prednisone is a corticosteroid used for various inflammatory conditions but not typically prescribed for Paget's disease.
Choice D rationale: Used to lower uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks, not a primary medication for Paget's disease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Tachycardia and petechiae over the chest wall and buccal membranes are signs of fat embolism syndrome, another complication of fractures that occurs when fat globules enter the bloodstream and obstruct pulmonary vessels.
Choice B rationale: Positive Homan's sign with calf tenderness and warmth are signs of deep vein thrombosis, a condition that can occur after prolonged immobilization or surgery.
Choice C rationale: Acute cough, cyanosis, and decreased blood pressure are signs of pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow.
Choice D rationale: These are signs of compartment syndrome, which is a serious complication of fractures that occurs when increased pressure within a closed space compromises blood flow and tissue perfusion. Compartment syndrome can lead to ischemia, necrosis, and nerve damage if not treated promptly.
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