A nurse is learning about the Institute of Medicine (IOM) (now National Academy of Medicine (NAM)) characteristics of Healthcare Quality.

Which of the following best describes the characteristics of the efficiency domain in Healthcare Quality initiatives?

Choice A rationale
While the application of anti-embolism stockings can be beneficial in preventing deep vein thrombosis in postoperative patients, it is not the most prioritized nursing intervention in the immediate postoperative period for a patient who has undergone a left pneumonectomy. The immediate postoperative period after a pneumonectomy is critical for monitoring and managing potential complications such as respiratory distress, hemorrhage, and bronchopleural fistula.
Choice B rationale
The use of the incentive spirometer is an important nursing intervention for postoperative patients to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis. However, in the immediate postoperative period following a pneumonectomy, the priority is to monitor for complications and ensure the stability of the patient.
Choice C rationale
Assessment of the chest tube and pleur-evac is the most prioritized nursing intervention in the immediate postoperative period for a patient who has undergone a left pneumonectomy. After a pneumonectomy, a chest tube is placed to drain air, blood, and fluid from the pleural space to allow the remaining lung to re-expand. It is crucial to monitor the chest tube system for proper functioning and to assess for complications such as excessive bleeding, infection, or pneumothorax.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning the patient in bed is a standard nursing intervention in postoperative care to enhance comfort, promote lung expansion, and prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis. However, it is not the most prioritized intervention in the immediate postoperative period following a pneumonectomy, where monitoring for respiratory complications and ensuring the stability of the patient are paramount.

Choice A rationale
The use of a Passy Muir speaking valve can be important for communication, but it is not the highest priority for discharge teaching.
Choice B rationale
Having the phone number of the healthcare provider to report complications is important, but it is not the highest priority. The patient needs to know how to prevent and recognize complications first.
Choice C rationale
While having emergency personal identification that the patient is unable to speak is important, it is not the highest priority. The patient’s immediate post-operative needs should be addressed first.
Choice D rationale
The ability to perform tracheostomy care is the highest priority for discharge teaching. This is a new and critical skill that the patient must learn to prevent complications, maintain the airway, and manage their own care at home.