A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has a Jackson-Pratt drain in place. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain the client on bed rest.
Decrease the client's fluid intake.
Apply cold compresses to the site.
Place the right leg in a dependent position.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action, as it can increase the risk of thromboembolism, infection, or atelectasis after surgery. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and exercise as tolerated by the client.
Choice B reason: Decreasing the client's fluid intake is not an appropriate action, as it can cause dehydration, constipation, or impaired wound healing after surgery. The nurse should encourage adequate hydration and nutrition to promote recovery and drainage.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to the site is not an appropriate action, as it can cause vasoconstriction, inflammation, or pain at the site. The nurse should apply warm compresses to the site to facilitate drainage and reduce swelling.
Choice D reason: Placing the right leg in a dependent position is an appropriate action, as it can promote gravity-assisted drainage from the site and prevent fluid accumulation or infection. The nurse should place the drain below the level of the wound and secure it to prevent dislodgment or tension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using analgesia around the clock is an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the principle of prevention rather than rescue when managing pain for a client who has terminal cancer. The nurse should administer analgesics on a regular schedule to maintain a steady level of pain relief and prevent breakthrough pain.
Choice B reason: Applying pain patches each morning and removing them at bedtime is not an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying and removing pain patches. Some patches are designed to be worn for 24 hours, while others are worn for 72 hours. Removing the patches too soon can cause inadequate pain control and withdrawal symptoms.
Choice C reason: Using intramuscular medications to control pain is not an appropriate action. The nurse should avoid using intramuscular route for administering analgesics to a client who has terminal cancer. Intramuscular injections are painful, unreliable, and increase the risk of infection and bleeding. The nurse should use oral, transdermal, or subcutaneous routes whenever possible.
Choice D reason: Decreasing a medication dose if the client develops tolerance is not an appropriate action. The nurse should understand that tolerance is a normal physiological response to long-term opioid use and does not indicate addiction or abuse. The nurse should adjust the medication dose according to the client's level of pain and response to treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect. The client having difficulty reading large print indicates a need for an ophthalmology referral, not an occupational therapy referral. An ophthalmologist can assess and treat vision problems caused by stroke.
Choice B: This is incorrect. The client coughing while drinking from a straw indicates a need for a speech therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A speech therapist can assess and treat swallowing problems caused by stroke.
Choice C: This is incorrect. The client being unable to bear her full weight while walking indicates a need for a physical therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A physical therapist can assess and treat mobility problems caused by stroke.
Choice D: This is correct. The client becoming exhausted after performing activities of daily living indicates a need for an occupational therapy referral. An occupational therapist can assess and treat functional problems caused by stroke, such as fatigue, self-care, cognition, and leisure activities.
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