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Difficulty: MediumBasic Care and Comfort

Following a right-sided carotid endarterectomy, a client requires careful positioning to ensure physiological safety and comfort. Which basic care actions should the practical nurse take to support this client? Select all that apply.

  1. Elevate the head of the bed to a 30-degree angle to promote venous drainage.Answer
  2. Support the client's head in a neutral, midline alignment using small pillows.Answer
  3. Apply a prescribed cold compress over the neck dressing to minimize localized swelling.Answer
  4. D
    Position the bed completely flat to maximize blood flow to the brain.
  5. E
    Place a thick pillow behind the client's head, causing the chin to flex toward the chest.

Answer

The nurse should elevate the head of the bed to a 30-degree angle, support the head in a neutral midline alignment, and apply a prescribed cold compress over the neck dressing.
Following a carotid endarterectomy, proper positioning is critical for airway protection and comfort. Elevating the head of the bed 30 degrees promotes venous drainage and minimizes edema. Maintaining the head in a neutral, midline position prevents tension on the incision and avoids airway compression. Applying a cold compress is an effective nonpharmacological comfort measure that reduces localized swelling.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the client's postoperative orders regarding positioning and comfort measures.
The nurse identifies the need to prevent neck edema and protect the airway.
Carotid endarterectomy involves an incision in the neck, making the airway highly vulnerable to swelling and improper alignment.
2
Adjust the bed and support the client's head.
The head of the bed is elevated 30 degrees, and the head is kept in a neutral position.
Elevation promotes venous drainage to reduce edema, while neutral alignment prevents airway compression and incision tension.
3
Implement nonpharmacological comfort measures.
A prescribed cold compress is applied to the neck.
Cold application constricts blood vessels, effectively reducing swelling and providing pain relief.

Key Concept

Basic Care and Comfort - Postoperative Positioning
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Topics

Basic Care and Comfort

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