A postoperative surgical patient asks how the sequential compression boots applied in the operating room will help lower the risk of blood clots forming in the legs. The nurse's most appropriate response would be that the boots:

alternately compress and release to help blood flow through vessels.

measure pressure in the leg blood vessels and sound an alarm if pressure rises.

provide gentle continuous compression at low pressure.

provide firm continuous compression at high pressure.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Alternately compress and release to help blood flow through vessels. Sequential compression devices (SCDs) work by alternating compression and release to promote venous return, prevent stasis, and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This is the correct mechanism of action for these devices.

B. Measure pressure in the leg blood vessels and sound an alarm if pressure rises. SCDs do not measure pressure; they are designed to apply intermittent pressure to the legs to encourage circulation and prevent clot formation.

C. Provide gentle continuous compression at low pressure. SCDs apply intermittent pressure, not continuous pressure. Continuous compression would not be effective in preventing DVT as it does not allow for the periodic relaxation of veins.

D. Provide firm continuous compression at high pressure. SCDs should apply intermittent, not continuous, pressure. High pressure could potentially harm the patient’s circulation and tissues, which is why the compression is designed to be gentle and alternating.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Nausea and vomiting. Nausea and vomiting can occur after surgery due to anesthesia and other factors. However, it is more common in patients of all ages who undergo certain types of surgery. Though these groups may be more susceptible, this is not the most specific risk.

B. Delayed healing. Both very young and older adult patients are at higher risk for delayed healing. In the very young, the immune system and cell regeneration processes are still developing, while in older adults, decreased circulation, chronic conditions, and slower cellular regeneration can impair wound healing.

C. Anorexia. Anorexia is not specific to surgical patients. While appetite loss can occur postoperatively, it is not as universally problematic in young or older surgical patients as delayed healing.

D. Hydration issues. Hydration issues can occur in all patients, especially following surgery, but they are particularly critical for the very young (due to smaller body mass and high fluid turnover) and the elderly (due to decreased kidney function and total body water). However, this is not as universally prevalent as delayed healing.

A. urinary tract infections are common at this stage. B. decreased urine output may be a sign of shock. C. a distended bladder is uncomfortable. D. swelling may block the ureters or urethra.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Urinary tract infections are common at this stage. While urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a potential postoperative complication, monitoring urine output is not primarily for detecting UTIs but for ensuring adequate kidney function and overall circulatory health.

B. Decreased urine output may be a sign of shock. Decreased urine output can be a key indicator of shock, as inadequate perfusion to the kidneys during shock reduces urine production. This is a critical sign of potential hemodynamic instability and warrants immediate attention.

C. A distended bladder is uncomfortable. While a distended bladder can be uncomfortable, monitoring urine output is more about assessing kidney function and detecting issues like dehydration, shock, or kidney failure rather than simply comfort.

D. Swelling may block the ureters or urethra. Swelling may cause urinary retention, but this is less common as a primary concern postoperatively. The primary reason for monitoring urine output is to assess overall circulation and kidney function, not necessarily to monitor for obstruction.

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A postoperative surgical patient asks how the sequential compression boots applied in the operating room will help lower the risk of blood clots forming in the legs. The nurse's most appropriate response would be that the boots:

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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