A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client following a modified left radical mastectomy with a breast expander. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
“will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible"
“will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander"
“should expect less than 25 ml of secretions per day in the drainage devices."
“will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
"will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible": This statement is incorrect because after a mastectomy, it's important to promote full range of motion in the affected arm to prevent complications like contractures and lymphedema.
Choice B reason:
“will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander" Typically, the process of adding saline to a breast expander begins much sooner, often within a few weeks after surgery, depending on the individual’s healing progress and the surgeon’s protocol.
Choice C reason:
"should expect less than 25 ml of secretions per day in the drainage devices":After a mastectomy, drainage devices are often placed to prevent fluid accumulation. The client should be aware that once the drainage decreases to less than 25 ml per day, it may be an indication that the drain can be removed. This shows an understanding of what to monitor postoperatively.
Choice D reason:
"will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight": This statement is not appropriate, especially shortly after surgery. Gradual and gentle strength-building exercises are recommended, and using a 15-pound weight could be too strenuous and potentially harmful.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Wound tissue firm to palpation is a false expectation. While firmness can be an indicator of healing in some wounds, it's not a reliable indicator on its own. The appearance and characteristics of the tissue, including granulation tissue, are more significant indicators of healing.
Choice B reason:
Dry brown eschar is a false expectation. Brown eschar is often necrotic tissue that needs to be removed for the wound to heal. Its presence typically suggests a lack of healing progress.
Choice C reason:
Dark red granulation tissue is the correct expectation because it is a sign of healing in a pressure ulcer. Granulation tissue is the new tissue that forms during the healing process, and the dark red color indicates that the tissue is well-vascularized and receiving adequate blood supply, which is essential for healing.
Choice D reason:
Light yellow exudate is a false expectation. Light yellow exudate is often indicative of infection or non-healing wounds. While some exudate is normal in the healing process, its color alone doesn't necessarily indicate healing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Diplopia is incorrect. Diplopia is double vision and is not a specific sign of malnutrition.
Choice B Reason:
Hyperproteinemia is incorrect - Malnutrition often leads to hypoalbuminemia (low levels of albumin, a protein), not hyperproteinemia.
Choice C Reason:
Cachexia is correct. Cachexia refers to a state of severe malnutrition and muscle wasting that can occur in individuals with chronic illnesses, especially advanced cancer, heart failure, or certain inflammatory conditions. It is characterized by significant weight loss, muscle atrophy, weakness, and fatigue. Cachexia goes beyond simple malnutrition and is a more severe manifestation of nutritional deficiency.
Choice D Reason:
Hypermagnesemia is incorrect - Malnutrition is more likely to cause deficiencies in minerals like magnesium, not excess levels (hypermagnesemia).
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