A charge nurse is teaching newly licensed nurses about postoperative procedures following abdominal surgery. Which of the following information should the charge nurse include?
Encourage ambulation only after 48 hours post-surgery.
Instruct clients to avoid coughing to prevent wound dehiscence.
Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or redness.
Remove surgical dressings within 12 hours post-surgery.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Encouraging ambulation only after 48 hours delays recovery, as early ambulation (within 12-24 hours) promotes circulation, prevents thromboembolism, and aids bowel function post-abdominal surgery. This instruction is incorrect, as it contradicts evidence-based protocols for early mobilization to enhance recovery.
Choice B reason: Instructing clients to avoid coughing is inappropriate, as coughing and deep breathing prevent pulmonary complications like atelectasis post-abdominal surgery. Splinting the incision during coughing reduces discomfort and dehiscence risk, making this instruction incorrect as it increases respiratory complications.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever or redness, is critical post-abdominal surgery to detect complications early. Infections can delay healing and lead to sepsis. Regular assessment ensures timely intervention, aligning with evidence-based postoperative care, making this the correct information to include.
Choice D reason: Removing surgical dressings within 12 hours is not standard, as dressings typically remain for 24-48 hours or per surgeon orders to protect the wound and reduce infection risk. Premature removal increases contamination risk, making this instruction incorrect for postoperative care.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dehydration is not directly associated with gastroesophageal reflux, which involves gastric acid backflow. Dehydration affects fluid balance, not reflux mechanisms, so this statement is inaccurate and irrelevant to preterm contractions, making it incorrect.
Choice B reason: Dehydration is not caused by decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit; rather, it may elevate these due to hemoconcentration. This statement reverses the relationship, making it factually incorrect and unrelated to preterm labor risks.
Choice C reason: Dehydration can increase preterm labor risk by reducing uterine blood flow and triggering contractions via oxytocin release. This evidence-based link supports hydration as a preventive measure, making it the correct statement for teaching in this scenario.
Choice D reason: Dehydration is treated with fluid replacement, not calcium supplements, which address bone health or specific deficiencies. This treatment is irrelevant to dehydration or preterm labor, making it an incorrect and inappropriate recommendation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Performing postural drainage immediately after meals risks aspiration and discomfort due to gastric contents shifting during positioning. It should be done 1-2 hours after meals to ensure safety and efficacy in clearing mucus from the lungs, making this timing inappropriate for cystic fibrosis management.
Choice B reason: Performing postural drainage twice daily is recommended for cystic fibrosis to mobilize thick mucus from the lungs, improving airway clearance and reducing infection risk. This frequency balances effectiveness with patient tolerance, aligning with evidence-based guidelines for managing chronic respiratory conditions, making it the correct action.
Choice C reason: Using a percussion vest is an alternative to manual postural drainage but is not specified as the only method. Manual techniques are effective and standard unless a vest is prescribed. This choice assumes equipment availability, which may not apply, making it less universally appropriate than scheduled manual drainage.
Choice D reason: Positioning the child flat during postural drainage is incorrect, as specific angled positions (e.g., head-down) are needed to target lung segments and promote mucus drainage by gravity. Flat positioning reduces effectiveness and may not clear airways adequately, making this an inappropriate technique for cystic fibrosis.
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