A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client following a modified left mastectomy. Which statements by the client indicate an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A Reason:

Capillary blood glucose level 164 mg/dl is appropriate. A capillary blood glucose level of 164 mg/dl is above the target range for blood glucose control. In a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), it's essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely, as hyperglycaemia can lead to complications. The nurse should intervene by notifying the healthcare provider and following the prescribed protocols for managing elevated blood glucose levels in a client with acute pancreatitis receiving TPN.

Choice B Reason:

Crackles in bilateral lower lobes is inappropriate. Crackles in the lungs could be indicative of fluid accumulation or inflammation, which can occur in various conditions. While it should be monitored, it may not require immediate intervention related to the TPN.

Choice C Reason:

WBC count 13,000/mm is inappropriate-. An elevated white blood cell count could be related to the acute pancreatitis itself or other factors. It might require further assessment and monitoring but may not be directly related to the TPN.

Choice D Reason:

Right upper quadrant pain is inappropriate- The client's right upper quadrant pain might be related to the acute pancreatitis or another cause, but it does not specifically indicate a need to intervene with the TPN at this moment.

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.