The nurse is caring for a client who has undergone a cataract extraction and during the early postoperative period is complaining of nausea and severe eye pain over the operative site. What should be the initial nursing action?
Turn the client onto their operative side.
Administer the prescribed pain medication and antiemetic.
Call the surgeon.
Reassure the client that this is normal.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Turning the client onto their operative side could increase pressure on the eye and is not an appropriate first action.
B. Administering prescribed pain medication and antiemetic is essential to address the client's severe pain and nausea, which are priority concerns in the postoperative period.
C. While it may be necessary to notify the surgeon if symptoms persist, the immediate priority is to alleviate the client's discomfort.
D. Reassuring the client that these symptoms are normal is misleading; severe pain and nausea postoperatively should be addressed promptly.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While pain level assessment is important, it is not the priority immediately after a significant brain injury where neurological changes may occur.
B. Wound site assessment is also essential but does not take precedence over neurological assessment in this context.
C. A neurological assessment is the priority to identify any changes in the client's condition that may indicate complications such as increased intracranial pressure, which can occur after brain surgery.
D. Respiratory status assessment is important but is usually addressed through monitoring and interventions related to neurological function, as brain injuries can affect respiratory drive and function.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Encouraging fluid intake at and between meals helps to dilute urine and can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) by promoting regular urination.
B. Cleansing the perineum should be done from front to back to prevent the introduction of bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra, so this option is incorrect.
C. Offering the bedpan every 2 hours may not be sufficient for individuals at risk for UTIs, as more frequent voiding can help prevent infection.
D. An indwelling urinary catheter increases the risk of urinary tract infections and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary; intermittent catheterization is generally preferred for those with spinal cord injuries to minimize this risk.