A nurse is caring for a client who had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting?

Choice A reason:

Administering an antiemetic as ordered can help prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting by blocking the receptors in the brain that trigger the vomiting reflex. This is a common intervention for clients who have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy, as they may experience nausea and vomiting due to the effects of anesthesia, pain, or the carbon dioxide gas used to inflate the abdomen during the procedure.

Choice B reason:

Encouraging the client to drink carbonated beverages is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as carbonated beverages can increase gastric distension and pressure, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. Carbonated beverages can also cause belching, which can introduce air into the stomach and increase the risk of aspiration.

Choice C reason:

Placing the client in a supine position is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as supine position can decrease gastric emptying and increase the risk of aspiration. Supine position can also impair respiratory function and cause hypoxemia, which can trigger nausea and vomiting. The client should be placed in a semi-Fowler's position or on their side with their head elevated to facilitate gastric emptying and prevent aspiration.

Choice D reason:

Applying pressure to the client's abdomen is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as pressure can cause pain and discomfort, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. Pressure can also interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection or bleeding. The client's abdomen should be assessed for distension, tenderness, or signs of complications, but not pressed.