A nurse is caring for a client who has arrived in the postoperative unit following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Which action should the nurse take?
Assist the client to turn, having them grasp the side rails.
Maintain strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively.
Assess the client's pain level and administer pain medication as needed.
Place the client in the prone position.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Assisting the client to turn by having them grasp the side rails is not recommended immediately following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. This action could place undue stress on the surgical site and potentially disrupt the healing process. Postoperative care typically involves minimizing movement of the spine to prevent complications.
Choice B reason:
Maintaining strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively is not a current standard of care following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Early ambulation, as tolerated, is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Choice C reason:
Assessing the client's pain level and administering pain medication as needed is a critical nursing intervention postoperatively. Effective pain management is essential for promoting patient comfort, facilitating early mobilization, and preventing complications. Pain assessment and management should be tailored to the individual's needs and carried out with regular monitoring.
Choice D reason:
Placing the client in the prone position is not typically advised following a laminectomy and spinal fusion, as it may put pressure on the surgical site and cause discomfort. The preferred position is usually on the back or occasionally on the side with proper support, depending on the surgeon's protocol and the client's comfort.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Hyperreflexia refers to an overactive or overresponsive reflexes, which is a neurological condition and not directly related to the behaviors described. It is typically seen in conditions affecting the central nervous system and is not characterized by the inability to wait turns or interrupting conversations.
Choice B Reason
Defiance implies a conscious choice to resist authority or rules, which may not necessarily be the case here. While children with behavioral issues may exhibit defiant behaviors, the symptoms described are more indicative of a lack of impulse control rather than a deliberate choice to defy.
Choice C Reason
Inattention is a component of several behavioral and cognitive disorders, including ADHD. However, the behaviors described—blurting out answers, inability to wait for turns, and interrupting others—are more specifically associated with impulsivity rather than inattention alone.
Choice D Reason
Impulsivity is the tendency to act on a whim, displaying behavior characterized by little or no forethought, reflection, or consideration of the consequences. The behaviors described—such as blurting out answers and interrupting others—are classic signs of impulsivity, which is often seen in conditions like ADHD.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Providing information about available community resources is crucial for ongoing support and assistance. These resources can offer counseling, medical follow-up, legal advice, and other services that may be needed after such a traumatic event. Community resources play a vital role in the recovery process, offering a network of support and specialized services tailored to the needs of sexual assault survivors.
Choice B reason:
While it is important to know when to return to the ED for follow-up care, this is typically not the primary content of discharge instructions. Follow-up care is usually managed by primary care providers or specialists rather than the ED unless there are specific complications or concerns that need to be addressed immediately.
Choice C reason:
The names and phone numbers of local attorneys may be provided, but this is not standard for all discharge instructions. Legal support is important, but the immediate focus post-discharge is often on the survivor's physical and emotional well-being. Attorneys specializing in defending rape victims can be a part of the community resources provided to the survivor.
Choice D reason:
The phone number of a battered women's shelter or safe house may be included in discharge instructions, especially if there is an immediate need for safe accommodation. However, this is not the only resource that should be provided, and it is not specific to all cases of sexual assault.
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