The nurse is caring for a client who had a bowel resection 2 hours ago for adenocarcinoma removal. It would be necessary for the nurse to immediately notify the surgeon if the client's assessment revealed:
no bowel sounds noted during the assessment.
an SPO2 which registers 90% while the client is asleep.
increasing abdominal distention.
a small amount of green-tinged fluid from the nasogastric tube.
The Correct Answer is C
A. The absence of bowel sounds shortly after surgery is not uncommon, especially within the first few hours, and does not necessarily indicate a complication at this time.
B. An SPO2 of 90% while the client is asleep may warrant attention, but it is not as critical as signs of a potential surgical complication. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and consider interventions, but immediate notification to the surgeon is not required.
C. Increasing abdominal distention is a concerning sign that may indicate complications such as an anastomotic leak or bowel obstruction, which requires immediate evaluation and possible intervention by the surgeon.
D. A small amount of green-tinged fluid from the nasogastric tube is generally expected postoperatively and does not necessarily indicate a problem, thus does not require immediate notification of the surgeon.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Slowing the rate of infusion may provide some temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue and may worsen the situation.
B. Applying a warm compress may soothe discomfort but is not the priority action when a burning sensation is reported, which could indicate potential extravasation.
C. Discontinuing the infusion is the best first action to prevent further damage to the tissue and to assess for complications such as infiltration or extravasation.
D. Checking for blood return can help assess the patency of the IV line, but the priority is to stop the infusion immediately to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The absence of bowel sounds shortly after surgery is not uncommon, especially within the first few hours, and does not necessarily indicate a complication at this time.
B. An SPO2 of 90% while the client is asleep may warrant attention, but it is not as critical as signs of a potential surgical complication. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and consider interventions, but immediate notification to the surgeon is not required.
C. Increasing abdominal distention is a concerning sign that may indicate complications such as an anastomotic leak or bowel obstruction, which requires immediate evaluation and possible intervention by the surgeon.
D. A small amount of green-tinged fluid from the nasogastric tube is generally expected postoperatively and does not necessarily indicate a problem, thus does not require immediate notification of the surgeon.