A patient who had abdominal surgery is complaining of "gas pains" and has distention of the abdomen and flatus. To promote patient comfort, the nurse should advise:
lying supine with knees flexed.
early ambulation
turning to the left side.
drinking fluids that are very hot.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Lying supine with knees flexed. Lying supine with knees flexed is a common position that can help relieve abdominal discomfort by relaxing the abdominal muscles and allowing gas to pass more easily.
B. Early ambulation: Early ambulation promotes the movement of gas through the intestines, which helps relieve bloating and discomfort. Moving helps stimulate peristalsis and reduces the risk of constipation or gas accumulation postoperatively.
C. Turning to the left side. Although turning to the left side may help with digestion, early ambulation is the most effective intervention for promoting the passage of gas and alleviating abdominal distention and discomfort.
D. Drinking fluids that are very hot: Hot liquids may irritate the stomach and intestines and are not a recommended strategy for relieving gas pain. Cool or room-temperature fluids are typically better tolerated postoperatively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Ease the stiffness from being on the operating table. While leg exercises can help relieve stiffness, their primary purpose is not to address the stiffness from surgery but to improve circulation and prevent complications.
B. Decrease pain from immobile extremities. Leg exercises may reduce discomfort associated with immobility, but the main goal is to prevent complications such as blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
C. Increase venous return and decrease stasis. Leg exercises are primarily aimed at improving venous return to the heart and reducing the risk of stasis, which can lead to complications like DVT.
D. Increase activity to help prevent atelectasis. While increasing activity is important for overall recovery, leg exercises are more focused on circulation and preventing blood clots, not directly preventing atelectasis (a condition where the lungs partially collapse).
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dehiscence: Dehiscence refers to the partial or total separation of the wound's layers, often occurring after surgery, such as when coughing increases intra-abdominal pressure.
B. Laceration: A laceration refers to a tear or break in the skin due to trauma, not a surgical complication.
C. Evisceration: Evisceration occurs when the internal organs protrude through the wound, which is a more severe complication than dehiscence.
D. Autologous: Autologous refers to using a person's own tissues or cells (e.g., blood transfusion), not a wound complication.
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