A client who had colon surgery 3 days ago is anxious and requesting assistance to reposition. While the nurse is turning the client, the wound dehisces and eviscerates. The nurse moistens an available sterile dressing and places it over the wound. Which intervention should the nurse implement next?
Obtain a sample of the drainage to send to the laboratory.
Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sound activity.
Prepare the client to return to the operating room.
Bring additional sterile dressing supplies to the room.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Obtaining a sample of the drainage is not an immediate priority after evisceration; the patient's safety and stabilization come first.
B. Auscultating the abdomen for bowel sounds is important but secondary to addressing the immediate crisis of evisceration.
C. Preparing the client to return to the operating room is the priority action because evisceration indicates a surgical emergency that requires prompt intervention to repair the abdominal wall and prevent complications.
D. While additional sterile dressing supplies may be needed, addressing the evisceration takes precedence to prevent further injury and manage the patient’s condition.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The elevated heart rate and respirations suggest the client may be experiencing hypoxia, especially following a thoracotomy. Administering oxygen will help improve oxygen saturation levels and address potential respiratory distress.
B. While pain management is essential, the immediate concern is ensuring adequate oxygenation.
C. Administering IV fluids may be necessary but is secondary to ensuring the client's oxygenation.
D. Encouraging the client to splint and cough is important for preventing complications but does not address the immediate issue of vital signs indicating possible respiratory compromise.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While having the client sign permits is important, it is not the priority action in this situation.
B. Notifying the healthcare provider about the client's current heparin therapy is critical, as it may influence the timing of surgery and the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure.
C. While explaining the potential for bleeding is important, it should occur after ensuring the surgical team is aware of the heparin use.
D. Observing injection sites for bruising is relevant but does not address the immediate concern regarding heparin use and potential bleeding during surgery.