A nurse caring for a postoperative client removes the client's dressing and notes an area of dehiscence. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the head of the client's bed flat with the client's legs extended.
Apply butterfly strips to approximate the wound edges.
Apply pressure directly to the wound for 15 min.
Place a sterile, saline-soaked dressing on the wound.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Place the head of the client's bed flat with the client's legs extended: Positioning flat may increase tension on the abdominal incision, potentially worsening the dehiscence. A low Fowler’s position with knees slightly bent is preferred to reduce strain on the wound.
B. Apply butterfly strips to approximate the wound edges: Forcing the wound edges together could trap bacteria inside and increase the risk of infection. Dehiscence requires moist protection, not forced closure at the bedside.
C. Apply pressure directly to the wound for 15 min: Direct pressure is appropriate for active bleeding, not for dehiscence. Applying pressure could damage tissues further and does not address the need to protect exposed structures.
D. Place a sterile, saline-soaked dressing on the wound: A moist sterile dressing protects the wound from contamination, prevents the tissues from drying, and reduces the risk of infection while awaiting further surgical evaluation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Adequate hydration: Maintaining proper fluid intake helps reduce blood viscosity and prevents sickling of red blood cells. Dehydration is a common trigger for sickle cell crises, so emphasizing hydration is crucial for prevention.
B. Increased iron intake: Most clients with sickle cell anemia do not require additional iron unless they have documented iron deficiency. Excess iron can accumulate and cause complications, especially in those receiving frequent transfusions.
C. Calorie restriction: Restricting calories is not recommended, as children with sickle cell anemia often have increased metabolic needs due to chronic hemolysis and may require adequate nutrition for growth and energy.
D. A low-protein diet: Protein is important for growth, tissue repair, and overall health. A low-protein diet is not indicated and could worsen nutritional status in children with sickle cell disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Both fontanels are the same size: Fontanels differ in size and shape; the anterior is larger and diamond-shaped, while the posterior is smaller and triangular. Expecting them to be the same size is inaccurate.
B. The anterior fontanel is open: The anterior fontanel typically remains open until about 12–18 months of age. At 8 months, an open anterior fontanel is an expected finding and indicates normal skull development.
C. The posterior fontanel is open: The posterior fontanel usually closes by 6–8 weeks of age. An open posterior fontanel at 8 months may indicate delayed closure and should be evaluated further.
D. Both fontanels show molding: Molding refers to overlapping of cranial bones during birth. At 8 months, molding should no longer be present; its presence is not a normal finding at this age.
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