A nurse is caring for a client who had total hip arthroplasty 1 day ago and is receiving morphine sulfate by PCA pump for pain control. The client reports nausea and vomiting. Which of the following actions is the priority for the nurse to take?

A. Stress incontinence

Stress incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects. In stress incontinence, the pelvic floor muscles are weakened, leading to inadequate support of the bladder and urethra. This results in leakage of urine during moments of increased pressure on the bladder.

B. Urge incontinence

Urge incontinence involves a strong and sudden urge to urinate, leading to involuntary urine loss. It is often associated with an overactive bladder and may not be related to increased abdominal pressure.

C. Overflow incontinence

Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder is unable to empty completely, leading to constant dribbling of urine. It is often associated with conditions that obstruct urine flow, such as an enlarged prostate in men.

D. Reflex incontinence

Reflex incontinence is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine due to a reflex arc that bypasses normal control mechanisms. It is often associated with neurological conditions that affect bladder control.

A. The stockings are used to reduce pain.

This statement is not accurate. While antiembolism stockings may provide some relief from discomfort and swelling, their primary purpose is to prevent venous stasis and reduce the risk of blood clots, not to directly reduce pain.

B. The stockings prevent varicose veins.

This statement is not entirely accurate. While compression stockings can provide some support to veins, their primary role is in preventing blood clots (venous thromboembolism) rather than preventing varicose veins, which are typically related to venous insufficiency.

C. The stockings prevent venous stasis.

This is the correct answer. Antiembolism stockings are specifically designed to prevent venous stasis, which refers to the slowing or stagnation of blood flow in the veins. They exert gentle pressure on the legs to enhance blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

D. The stockings replace the need for postoperative leg exercises.

This statement is not accurate. While antiembolism stockings are a preventive measure, they do not replace the need for postoperative leg exercises. Leg exercises are important for promoting circulation, preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and maintaining overall mobility after surgery.