A nurse is planning care for a client who is being admitted for treatment of anorexia nervosa. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

A. The client should place a pillow under their knee when resting: Placing a pillow under the knee after surgery is generally not recommended because it can promote flexion contractures. Instead, the knee should be kept in a neutral or slightly extended position to maintain proper alignment and prevent stiffness.

B. The client should take an anticoagulant for 3 days following surgery: Anticoagulant therapy after knee surgery is typically prescribed for a longer period, often several weeks, depending on the client’s risk for deep vein thrombosis. A 3-day regimen would be insufficient for most post-operative patients.

C. The client should begin to ambulate using a walker or a cane: Early ambulation with assistive devices is a standard intervention in post-knee surgery rehabilitation. It helps maintain mobility, prevents complications like deep vein thrombosis and muscle atrophy, and promotes joint function while ensuring safety as the client regains strength.

D. The client should begin physical therapy 3 weeks after surgery: Physical therapy usually begins within 24–48 hours post-surgery or as soon as the client is medically stable. Delaying therapy for 3 weeks would hinder recovery, increase stiffness, and delay functional independence.

A. Slurred speech: Slurred speech is typically associated with intoxication from central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or opioids, rather than withdrawal. During withdrawal, the client is more likely to exhibit hyperactive or restless behavior.

B. Constricted pupils: Pupillary constriction (miosis) occurs with opioid intoxication. In contrast, opioid withdrawal usually causes dilated pupils (mydriasis) due to sympathetic nervous system overactivity.

C. Sedation: Sedation is a common effect of opioid use, not withdrawal. During withdrawal, clients are generally hyperalert, restless, and may experience insomnia rather than excessive sleepiness.

D. Yawning: Yawning is a classic sign of opioid withdrawal and reflects autonomic nervous system activation. It is often accompanied by lacrimation, rhinorrhea, sweating, and other early withdrawal symptoms.