While changing a postoperative patient’s dressing, the nurse notices purulent drainage at the site.
Before reporting this to the healthcare provider, which of the patient’s lab values should the nurse check?

Choice A rationale

Using the inhaler only when the patient is really short of breath is not an incorrect use of the inhaler. However, it might indicate that the patient is not managing their COPD effectively, as rescue inhalers like albuterol are meant to be used for quick relief of acute symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Having a hard time inhaling and holding the breath after squeezing the inhaler might suggest that the patient is not using the inhaler correctly. However, the patient’s statement that they “do their best” suggests that they are aware of the correct technique and are trying to follow it.

Choice C rationale

Swallowing after squeezing the inhaler is a clear indication of incorrect use. The medication from the inhaler is meant to be inhaled into the lungs, not swallowed. Swallowing the medication would lead to less of it reaching the lungs, reducing its effectiveness. The wave of nausea the patient experiences could be a side effect of swallowing the medication.

Choice D rationale

Shaking the inhaler several times before starting is actually part of the correct technique for using many types of inhalers.

Choice A rationale

Changing the surgical dressing promptly when it becomes soiled is crucial to minimize the risk of a MRSA recurrence in the postoperative wound. A soiled dressing can become a medium for bacterial growth, including MRSA, and can potentially contaminate the wound.

Choice B rationale

Monitoring for any increase in the white blood cell count is important in detecting an infection, including a MRSA infection. However, it is not the most crucial intervention to minimize the risk of a MRSA recurrence in the postoperative wound.

Choice C rationale

Educating the family on the importance of adhering to contact precautions is important in preventing the spread of MRSA. However, it is not the most crucial intervention to minimize the risk of a MRSA recurrence in the postoperative wound.

Choice D rationale

Wearing a face mask while performing wound care can help prevent the spread of MRSA. However, it is not the most crucial intervention to minimize the risk of a MRSA recurrence in the postoperative wound.