The nurse is caring for a client post-operatively following an open (incisional) cholecystectomy. Which would be the priority nursing intervention for this client?
Administer a narcotic analgesic every two hours.
Encourage a low-fat diet the first post-op day.
Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer.
Ambulate the client in the hall the first post-op evening.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While administering a narcotic analgesic may be necessary for pain management, it does not address the immediate post-operative needs related to respiratory function and mobility.
B. Encouraging a low-fat diet is important after a cholecystectomy, but this can be addressed after ensuring the client's respiratory function and mobilization are stable.
C. Encouraging the use of the incentive spirometer is the priority intervention as it promotes lung expansion, reduces the risk of atelectasis, and improves oxygenation, which is crucial in the post-operative period.
D. While ambulating the client is important for recovery and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, it should follow ensuring that the patient is able to effectively use the incentive spirometer to maintain respiratory function first.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While a diet of soft foods and liquid protein may be beneficial for a client undergoing chemotherapy, it is not the most critical intervention related to thrombocytopenia. Nutritional needs can be managed but do not address the immediate risk of bleeding or injury.
B. Teaching safety in the home to reduce injury and falls is the most important intervention. Clients with thrombocytopenia have a significantly increased risk of bleeding and bruising, making it essential to prevent falls and injuries that could lead to serious complications.
C. Spacing activities throughout the day can help manage fatigue, but it is not as urgent as ensuring the client is safe from injuries related to low platelet counts.
D. Frequent hand hygiene is important to prevent infections, especially in immunocompromised patients, but it does not directly address the primary concern of preventing injuries related to thrombocytopenia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Measuring abdominal girth may be relevant for assessing potential complications like abdominal distention, but it is not the immediate priority in response to serosanguinous drainage from the nasogastric tube.
B. Continuing to monitor the drainage is appropriate, as serosanguinous fluid is common immediately after surgery and may gradually change as healing progresses. Monitoring allows for the identification of any changes that may require further intervention.
C. Notifying the physician may be necessary if the drainage increases or changes significantly, but immediate action is to observe and assess the drainage trend.
D. Irrigating the nasogastric tube is not warranted unless there is an obstruction or significant change in the drainage; it should only be done based on specific orders or protocols.
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