Question

Difficulty: EasyBasic Care and Comfort

A practical nurse is providing basic care for a client who is recovering from abdominal surgery and reports feeling nauseous. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse implement to promote comfort and safety? (Select all that apply.)

  1. Assist the client into a side-lying position.Answer
  2. Provide a cool, damp cloth for the client to place on their forehead or neck.Answer
  3. Offer the client frequent oral hygiene.Answer
  4. D
    Position the client completely flat in a supine position to encourage deep sleep.
  5. E
    Provide a large glass of warm water for the client to drink immediately.

Answer

The correct actions include assisting the client into a side-lying position, providing a cool cloth, and offering frequent oral hygiene.
Assisting the client into a side-lying position is a critical safety measure that protects the airway by allowing gravity to drain potential emesis, thereby preventing aspiration. Furthermore, providing a cool, damp cloth and offering frequent oral care are excellent basic care measures that relieve the discomfort of nausea and improve the client's overall well-being.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the client's current symptoms and safety risks.
The client is post-operative and experiencing nausea.
Nausea significantly increases the risk of vomiting, which can lead to aspiration if the airway is not protected.
2
Implement positioning interventions.
The client is placed in a side-lying position.
This position allows any emesis to drain out of the mouth, maintaining a clear airway.
3
Provide non-pharmacological comfort measures.
A cool cloth and oral hygiene are offered.
These basic care interventions help relieve nausea and promote physical comfort.

Key Concept

Post-operative basic care, comfort measures, and aspiration prevention
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