A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for an abdominal hysterectomy under general anesthesia. The client asks what type of anesthesia will be used and how it will affect her. Which of the following responses should the nurse give?

Choice A reason:

Applying sequential compression devices (SCDs) to the lower extremities is the most effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. SCDs are pneumatic devices that inflate and deflate around the legs to promote venous return and prevent stasis of blood, which can lead to clot formation.

Choice B reason:

Massaging the calves and thighs gently is not recommended for a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. Massaging the affected area can dislodge a clot and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening complication of DVT.

Choice C reason:

Elevating the foot of the bed by 15 degrees is not an effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. Elevating the foot of the bed can increase venous stasis and impair circulation, which can increase the risk of clot formation.

Choice D reason:

Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises is an effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT, but not as effective as applying SCDs. Early ambulation and leg exercises can improve blood flow and prevent venous stasis, but they may not be feasible or safe for some patients who had spinal surgery, depending on their level of injury and mobility.

Choice A reason:

Covering the wound with sterile gauze moistened with normal saline is a correct nursing intervention for wound evisceration, but it is not the priority action. The priority is to get immediate help and inform the surgeon of the situation.

Choice B reason:

Placing the patient in low Fowler's position with knees bent is another correct nursing intervention for wound evisceration, as it reduces tension on the abdominal muscles and prevents further protrusion of the bowel. However, it is not the priority action either.

Choice C reason:

Calling for assistance and notifying the surgeon is the priority nursing intervention for wound evisceration, as this is a surgical emergency that requires prompt intervention to prevent complications such as infection, necrosis, or shock. The nurse should also monitor the patient's vital signs and prepare for possible surgery.

Choice D reason:

Applying pressure to the wound edges is an incorrect nursing intervention for wound evisceration, as it can cause further damage to the bowel and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should avoid touching or manipulating the wound or the bowel.