A nurse is assessing a client who has preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate via continuous IV infusion.

For which of the following therapeutic effects should the nurse monitor the client

Wound dehiscence can lead to infection, bleeding, and evisceration (protrusion of internal organs through the incision). The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately and cover the wound with a sterile dressing moistened with sterile saline solution.

Choice A is wrong because mild swelling under the sutures near the incisional line is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing. It does not indicate infection or dehiscence unless accompanied by other signs such as redness, warmth, pain, or purulent drainage.

Choice B is wrong because crusting of exudate on the incisional line is also a normal finding that indicates the formation of a scab.

A scab protects the wound from infection and helps it heal faster. The nurse should not remove the scab unless instructed by the provider.

Choice D is wrong because pink-tinged coloration on the incisional line is another normal finding that shows healthy granulation tissue.

Granulation tissue is new tissue that fills in the wound and helps it close. It is usually pink or red and moist.

The nurse should follow these general tips for postoperative abdominal incision care:

• Always wash your hands before and after touching your incisions.
• Inspect your incisions and wounds every day for signs your healthcare provider has told you are red flags or concerning.
• Look for any bleeding.

If the incisions start to bleed, apply direct and constant pressure to the incisions.

• Avoid wearing tight clothing that might rub on your incisions.
• Try not to scratch any itchy wounds.
• You can shower starting 48 hours after your operation but no scrubbing or soaking of the abdominal wounds in a tub.
• After the initial dressing from the operating room is removed, you can leave the wound open to air unless there is drainage or you feel more comfortable with soft gauze covering the wound.
• Surgical glue (Indermil) will fall off over a period of up to 2-3 weeks.

Do not put any topical ointments or lotions on the incisions.

• Do not rub over the incisions with a washcloth or towel.
• No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming until evaluated at your clinic appointment.

Explanation:

"I will use a cool-mist vaporizer in my baby's room." This statement demonstrates an understanding of the teaching. Using a cool-mist vaporizer can help maintain moisture in the air and alleviate nasal congestion in infants.

Incorrect:

B- "I will leave my baby's bib on while he is sleeping." This statement indicates a lack of understanding. It is not safe to leave a bib on an infant while they are sleeping as it can pose a suffocation risk.

C- "I will leave the plastic covering on the crib mattress." This statement indicates a lack of understanding. The plastic covering on the crib mattress should be removed as it can pose a suffocation hazard.

D- "I will lay my baby's head on a pillow while he is in the crib." This statement indicates a lack of understanding. Pillows should not be used in the crib for infants as they can increase the risk of suffocation and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).