A nurse is assessing a child who is postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Sore throat
Dark brown emesis
Blood-tinged mucus
Frequent swallowing
The Correct Answer is D
A. Sore throat. This is incorrect because a sore throat is an expected postoperative finding following a tonsillectomy and does not indicate a complication.
B. Dark brown emesis. This is incorrect because dark brown emesis may be swallowed blood from surgery and is not necessarily an immediate concern unless it continues or turns bright red.
C. Blood-tinged mucus. This is incorrect because small amounts of blood-tinged mucus are normal after a tonsillectomy and do not indicate active bleeding.
D. Frequent swallowing. This is correct because frequent swallowing can indicate active bleeding from the surgical site. Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage is a serious complication that requires immediate intervention.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reinserting the protruding intestinal tissue is inappropriate and can cause further injury or infection. The nurse should keep the tissue moist and protected until surgical intervention.
B. Placing the client in Trendelenburg position is incorrect because it does not reduce tension on the wound. Instead, the client should be placed in a low Fowler's position with knees slightly flexed to reduce strain.
C. Covering the wound with a sterile saline-soaked dressing is the priority action to keep the tissue moist and prevent further contamination or damage until the provider can intervene.
D. Monitoring vital signs every 30 minutes is important but not the priority action. The nurse should immediately cover the wound first, then monitor for signs of shock or infection.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Have the client hold their breath during the examination. This is not recommended, as slow, deep breathing helps the client relax and reduces discomfort.
B. Ensure that the client's bladder is full. The bladder should be emptied before the exam to enhance comfort and allow better access for the provider.
C. Instruct the client to bear down when the speculum is inserted. This helps relax the pelvic muscles and makes insertion easier, reducing discomfort.
D. Place the client in modified Sims' position. The lithotomy position is the correct positioning for a pelvic examination, not modified Sims'.
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