A nurse is reinforcing preoperative teaching with a client who is to undergo a bowel resection at 1300 next week. Which of the following statements client indicates to the nurse a need for further teaching?

(A) Place the client in high-Fowler’s position and encourage the use of incentive spirometer and coughing: This is the most appropriate action. The high-Fowler’s position can help improve lung expansion and gas exchange, while the use of an incentive spirometer and coughing can help clear secretions and improve ventilation. This is particularly important for a client who is postoperative following an open thoracotomy.

(B) Switch oxygen to a nonrebreather mask: Switching to a nonrebreather mask may deliver a higher concentration of oxygen, but it does not address the underlying issue of impaired gas exchange due to decreased lung expansion and retained secretions.

(C) Position the client prone and have the respiratory therapist perform postural drainage: While postural drainage can help clear secretions, it may not be comfortable or safe for a client who is 1 day postoperative following an open thoracotomy.

(D) Increase oxygen to 70%: Increasing the oxygen concentration may improve the client’s oxygen saturation, but it does not address the underlying issue of impaired gas exchange due to decreased lung expansion and retained secretions. Furthermore, excessively high concentrations of oxygen can have harmful effects, such as oxygen toxicity or suppression of the respiratory drive in some clients.

A. A 14-month-old toddler with bruises on bony prominences:

Bruises on bony prominences are common in toddlers who are learning to walk and are prone to falls. While bruising can raise concerns, it is not necessarily indicative of physical abuse, especially in this age group.

B. A 9-month-old infant who sustained near drowning:

Near drowning in an infant who climbed into the tub and turned on the water suggests an accidental event rather than physical abuse. This scenario is consistent with lack of supervision or an unfortunate accident.

C. A 3-year-old toddler with scalding burns:

Scalding burns from spilling hot tea on oneself can occur accidentally, especially in young children who may not understand the dangers associated with hot liquids. While the circumstances may raise suspicion, it does not necessarily indicate physical abuse without further evidence.

D. A 6-year-old child with a spiral fracture:

A spiral fracture of the tibia and fibula is concerning for physical abuse, especially in a child who reportedly sustained the injury while riding a bicycle. Spiral fractures are often associated with twisting or pulling forces and are considered suspicious for non-accidental trauma, particularly when there is no plausible explanation for the injury.