A nurse is caring for a client who had abdominal surgery 24 hr ago. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Assess fluid intake every 24 hr.
Ambulate three times a day.
Assist with deep breathing and coughing.
Monitor the incision site for findings of infection.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assessing fluid intake every 24 hr is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should monitor fluid intake and output more frequently, such as every 8 hr or every shift, to detect any imbalances or complications.
B. Ambulating three times a day is beneficial for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should encourage early and frequent ambulation to promote circulation, prevent thromboembolism, and enhance bowel function, but only after ensuring that the client is stable and has adequate pain control.
C. Assisting with deep breathing and coughing is the priority action for a postoperative client who had abdominal surgery. The nurse should help the client perform these exercises every 1 to 2 hr to prevent atelectasis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, which are common and serious complications after abdominal surgery.
D. Monitoring the incision site for findings of infection is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should inspect the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or odor, but this can be done during routine dressing changes or as needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Correct answer: A. Have the child take a tub bath each morning
A. Have the child take a tub bath each morning: Warm tub baths are recommended for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) as they help to relieve joint stiffness and pain, especially in the morning. The warm water can soothe the joints, making movement easier and reducing discomfort throughout the day.
B. Apply splints to the child's extremities during the day: While splints may be used in JIA, they are typically applied during the night (resting splints) to maintain joint position and prevent contractures. Daytime use of splints (working splints) may be considered in certain situations, but generally, children are encouraged to be as active as possible during the day to maintain joint mobility.
C. Encourage the child to take naps during the day: While rest is important, encouraging too much rest during the day may contribute to joint stiffness. Regular activity helps maintain joint function and mobility, which is essential in managing JIA.
D. Keep the child on bedrest as long as pain persists: Prolonged bedrest is not recommended for children with JIA. It can lead to muscle atrophy, increased stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. Instead, the focus should be on maintaining activity within the child's pain tolerance and using pain management strategies.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because massaging bony prominences on the client's left side can increase the risk of skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. The nurse should avoid applying pressure to areas with impaired circulation or sensation.
B is correct because supporting the client's left arm on a pillow while sitting can prevent edema, contractures, and nerve damage. The nurse should also encourage the client to perform active and passive range of motion exercises on their left arm.
C is incorrect because positioning the bedside table on the client's left side can discourage the client from using their right side, which can lead to neglect and learned nonuse. The nurse should position the bedside table on the client's right side and encourage them to reach for items with their right hand.
D is incorrect because placing the client's cane on their left side while ambulating can cause instability and falls. The nurse should place the cane on the client's right side and instruct them to move their left leg and cane together, followed by their right leg.
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