The nurse notes serosanguinous drainage from the nasogastric tube in the immediate postoperative period of a client who had a gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Which nursing action is appropriate?
Measure abdominal girth.
Continue to monitor the drainage.
Notify the physician.
Irrigate the nasogastric tube.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Measuring abdominal girth may be relevant for assessing potential complications like abdominal distention, but it is not the immediate priority in response to serosanguinous drainage from the nasogastric tube.
B. Continuing to monitor the drainage is appropriate, as serosanguinous fluid is common immediately after surgery and may gradually change as healing progresses. Monitoring allows for the identification of any changes that may require further intervention.
C. Notifying the physician may be necessary if the drainage increases or changes significantly, but immediate action is to observe and assess the drainage trend.
D. Irrigating the nasogastric tube is not warranted unless there is an obstruction or significant change in the drainage; it should only be done based on specific orders or protocols.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Measuring abdominal girth may be relevant for assessing potential complications like abdominal distention, but it is not the immediate priority in response to serosanguinous drainage from the nasogastric tube.
B. Continuing to monitor the drainage is appropriate, as serosanguinous fluid is common immediately after surgery and may gradually change as healing progresses. Monitoring allows for the identification of any changes that may require further intervention.
C. Notifying the physician may be necessary if the drainage increases or changes significantly, but immediate action is to observe and assess the drainage trend.
D. Irrigating the nasogastric tube is not warranted unless there is an obstruction or significant change in the drainage; it should only be done based on specific orders or protocols.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While being alert for non-verbal clues for pain or discomfort is important, it does not directly address the risk for ineffective airway clearance.
B. Answering for the client during rounds with the physician may compromise the client's ability to communicate their needs and concerns, which is not appropriate.
C. Assessment of the ability to cough and swallow is crucial for clients who have undergone oral surgery, as it directly relates to their airway clearance and safety in managing secretions.
D. Providing enough time for the client to respond is important for overall communication and comfort but does not specifically address the risk for ineffective airway clearance, which requires more targeted interventions.