A nurse is providing care for a patient who is postoperative day 2 following gastric surgery.
The nurse's assessment should be planned in light of the possibility of what potential complications? Select all that apply.
Chronic gastritis
Atelectasis
Pneumonia
Malignant hyperthermia
Metabolic imbalances
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A reason:
Chronic gastritis is not a common immediate postoperative complication of gastric surgery. It is more related to long-term gastric health.
Choice B reason:
Correct. Atelectasis, or partial lung collapse, is a potential complication postoperatively, especially in abdominal surgery. The nurse should assess for signs such as decreased breath sounds and reduced oxygen saturation.
Choice C reason:
Correct. Pneumonia is a potential complication due to reduced lung function and shallow breathing after surgery. The nurse should monitor for signs like fever, increased respiratory rate, and abnormal breath sounds.
Choice D reason:
Malignant hyperthermia is a rare complication related to certain types of anesthesia agents. It is not a common complication after gastric surgery
Choice E reason:
Correct. Metabolic imbalances, such as electrolyte disturbances or changes in blood glucose levels, can occur after gastric surgery. The nurse should monitor for signs like weakness, confusion, and abnormal laboratory values.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Taking metronidazole with food can help reduce stomach upset. It is not typically recommended to take on an entirely empty stomach.
Choice B reason:
Metronidazole can cause drowsiness, but taking it at bedtime specifically for this reason is not a standard recommendation. It's more important to focus on avoiding alcohol.
Choice C reason:
Taking an extra dose without specific medical advice is not recommended. It's important to follow the prescribed dosing regimen.
Choice D reason:
Avoiding alcohol while taking metronidazole is crucial. The combination of metronidazole and alcohol can cause severe reactions, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headache, and flushing. This interaction can occur for several days after discontinuing metronidazole, so it's essential to abstain from alcohol throughout the course of treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While diarrhea can be a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, it is not typically considered a priority over more severe symptoms.
Choice B reason:
Dyspepsia (indigestion) is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more concerning symptoms.
Choice C reason:
Epigastric discomfort is a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more severe symptoms like hematemesis.
Choice D reason:
Hematemesis (vomiting blood) is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of peptic ulcer disease. It is the top priority for assessment and intervention.

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