The client has returned from surgery following a below the knee amputation (BKA). The residual limb is covered with a compression dressing. Immediately upon return from surgery, the dressing is dry. Thirty minutes later, a small amount of bloody drainage is noted on the dressing. What should be the nurse's priority action at this time?
Change the dressing
Notify the physician
Lower the head of the bed
Mark the area of drainage, time and date
The Correct Answer is D
A. While it is important to maintain a clean and dry dressing, changing it immediately may not be necessary at this stage. The small amount of bloody drainage could be a normal postoperative finding, and changing the dressing could disturb the surgical site.
B. While it is important to keep the physician informed of any changes, in this case, a small amount of bloody drainage may not warrant immediate notification unless it becomes excessive or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
C. Lowering the head of the bed might not directly address the situation. It may be more appropriate if the patient shows signs of hypotension or distress, but there is no indication that the drainage has caused such a concern at this moment.
D. Marking the area of drainage allows for proper monitoring of the situation. It helps track whether the drainage increases, remains the same, or decreases over time. Documentation of the time and date also provides a clear record for the healthcare team regarding the postoperative course, which is essential for ongoing assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the correct time to draw the peak level. The peak level is the highest concentration of the drug in the blood, which typically occurs about 30 minutes to an hour after the end of the infusion.
Correct Answer is ["37.5"]
Explanation
Drip rate (drops per minute) = (Volume to be infused (mL) x Drop factor) / Time (minutes)
3 hours = 3 * 60 = 180 minutes
Drip rate = (450 mL x 15 drops/mL) / 180 minutes Drip rate = 6750 / 180
Drip rate = 37.5 drops per minute
Therefore, the nurse should regulate the IV at a rate of 37.5 drops per minute.
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