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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Attaching a prefilled syringe to the catheter inflation hub is a step performed after the catheter insertion to inflate the balloon, securing the catheter in the bladder. This action is not the first step and should not be done before cleansing the meatus and positioning the sterile drape.
Choice B rationale:
Positioning the sterile drape leaving the perineum exposed is a necessary step in maintaining the sterility of the procedure area. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Cleaning the client's meatus with an antiseptic solution is the initial step to prevent infection during catheter insertion.
Choice C rationale:
Cleaning the client's meatus with antiseptic solution is the first step in inserting an indwelling urinary catheter. This action helps to reduce the risk of urinary tract infection by minimizing the introduction of bacteria into the urethra.
Choice D rationale:
Lubricating the catheter with water-soluble gel is a step performed after cleansing the meatus and positioning the sterile drape. It facilitates the smooth insertion of the catheter into the urethra. However, it is not the first action to be taken.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Explore the client's reasons for refusing the treatment.
- A. Documenting the client's refusal in the medical record is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should first try to understand the client's perspective and address any concerns or misconceptions they might have about the blood transfusion. This choice is incorrect.
- B. Honoring the client's decision to refuse the blood transfusion is a respectful and ethical action, but not the first one. The nurse should first attempt to educate and persuade the client about the benefits and risks of the treatment, and respect their autonomy only after ensuring that they have made an informed decision. This choice is incorrect.
- C. Exploring the client's reasons for refusing the treatment is the first action that the nurse should take. The nurse should use effective communication skills to elicit the client's beliefs, values, fears, and preferences regarding the blood transfusion, and provide factual and evidencebased information to address any knowledge gaps or misconceptions. The nurse should also assess the client's decision-making capacity and determine if they are competent to refuse the treatment. This choice is correct.
- D. Discussing the client's refusal with the provider is an appropriate action, but not the first one. The nurse should first try to resolve the issue with the client directly, and involve the provider only if they are unable to do so or if there are legal or ethical implications that require further consultation. This choice is incorrect.
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