The patient who is morbidly obese has just undergone gastric bypass surgery. Which immediate post-operative intervention has the greatest priority?
Change the surgical dressing.
Auscultate bowel sounds.
Reposition the NG tube if patient is nauseated.
Elevate the head of the bed at least 30 degrees.
The Correct Answer is D
A. While monitoring the surgical site is important, changing the dressing is not the highest priority immediately post-operatively. The initial focus should be on assessing the patient's stability and managing any complications rather than performing a dressing change.
B. Assessing bowel sounds is important to evaluate gastrointestinal function, particularly after gastrointestinal surgery. However, this can be done after ensuring that the patient is stable and that their airway, breathing, and circulation are prioritized. While important, it is not the immediate priority.
C. If the patient has a nasogastric (NG) tube in place and is experiencing nausea, this may require attention, as it can indicate a blockage or discomfort. However, repositioning the NG tube may not be the first intervention to prioritize in the immediate post-operative setting.
D. This intervention is critical for multiple reasons. Elevating the head of the bed helps reduce the risk of aspiration, improves breathing by enhancing lung expansion, and aids in reducing pressure on the surgical site. After abdominal surgery, especially in obese patients, elevating the head can also promote comfort and facilitate early ambulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. C. difficile is primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route, not through respiratory droplets. While masks can be important for respiratory infections, they are not a standard precaution for C. difficile.
B. C. difficile infections require contact precautions to prevent the spread of spores. This includes wearing gloves and gowns when entering the room and ensuring proper hand hygiene protocols are followed. It helps protect other patients and staff from potential infection.
C. The diagnosis of a C. difficile infection is typically made through stool testing for the presence of the bacteria or its toxins. Blood tests are not effective for diagnosing C. difficile infections.
D. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective for many pathogens, they are not effective against
C. difficile spores. Instead, hand hygiene should be performed with soap and water to effectively remove the spores from hands.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Elevating the head of the bed is a recommended practice for individuals with GERD, as it helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep. This shows the patient is taking proactive steps to manage their condition.
B. Using antacids can provide symptomatic relief from heartburn and discomfort associated with GERD. Taking them between meals and at bedtime can help neutralize stomach acid, which is a common practice for managing GERD symptoms.
C. Eating large meals, especially rich or fatty foods, and snacking before bedtime can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing stomach pressure and acid production. Patients with GERD are typically advised to eat smaller meals and avoid eating close to bedtime to reduce reflux episodes.
D. Chewing gum can actually be beneficial for some GERD patients as it stimulates saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.