While a nurse is caring for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal tube, the high-pressure alarm on the ventilator sounds.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

"Have you had any stomach pain or bloody stools?"

Rationale:

• A. Muscle stiffness is not a common or serious adverse effect of ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is an antiinflammatory drug that can reduce pain and stiffness caused by arthritis.
• B. Stomach pain or bloody stools are signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a serious and potentially fatal adverse effect of ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause ulceration, perforation, and hemorrhage of the stomach or intestines . The nurse should ask the client about any gastrointestinal symptoms and advise them to avoid alcohol, smoking, and other NSAIDs while taking ibuprofen.
• C. Dry cough is not a common or serious adverse effect of ibuprofen. Dry cough is more likely to be caused by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which are used to treat hypertension and heart failure.
• D. Increase in urine output is not a common or serious adverse effect of ibuprofen. Ibuprofen can cause renal impairment, which can lead to decreased urine output, not increased urine output. The nurse should monitor the client's renal function tests and fluid balance while taking ibuprofen.

The correct answers are A, B, and D.

Choice A reason:

Removing an indwelling urinary catheter when it is no longer indicated is a standard postoperative care practice. It helps to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are common complications associated with prolonged catheter use. The normal practice is to remove the catheter as soon as the patient can use the bathroom independently or when medically advised.

Choice B reason:

Elevating the affected limb at chest level can help reduce swelling and improve venous return. This is particularly important after surgery involving the lower extremities to prevent edema and promote circulation. Proper elevation assists in managing pain and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Choice C reason:

Assisting with ambulation from bed to chair immediately after surgery may not be appropriate, especially if the adolescent has had surgery on the lower extremity. It is essential to wait for the physician's evaluation and specific instructions regarding weight-bearing and movement post-surgery.

Choice D reason:

Performing neurovascular assessments every hour is crucial after surgery on an extremity. This involves checking for sensation, motor function, color, temperature, capillary refill, and pulse strength. The normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds; a refill time of 4 seconds, as noted in the assessment, is abnormal and warrants close monitoring. Frequent assessments help in early detection of complications such as compartment syndrome.

Choice E reason:

Applying warm packs to the right extremity for the first 24 hours post-surgery is not recommended. Warm packs can increase circulation to the area, potentially increasing swelling and bleeding. Instead, cold packs are usually applied to reduce swelling and provide pain relief. The use of warm packs can be considered after the initial 24-hour period, depending on the surgeon's instructions and the wound's response.