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Difficulty: EasyBasic Care and Comfort

A client is recovering on the surgical floor one day after undergoing an open laparotomy. Which interventions should the nurse include to promote comfort and prevent complications? Select all that apply.

  1. Show the client how to hold a firm cushion against the abdomen when coughing.Answer
  2. Help the client change positions frequently throughout the shift.Answer
  3. C
    Position a heavy, rolled blanket directly beneath the knees to relax the abdominal muscles.
  4. D
    Keep the bed continuously flat to prevent pulling on the surgical incision.
  5. Administer a prescribed mild analgesic prior to planned ambulation sessions.Answer

Answer

The correct actions include showing the client how to splint the abdomen with a cushion, helping the client change positions frequently, and administering prescribed analgesics prior to ambulation.
Splinting the abdomen with a cushion provides external support to the surgical incision, which significantly reduces pain during coughing or deep breathing. Frequent position changes are essential basic care actions that prevent skin breakdown, promote circulation, and improve lung aeration. Administering an analgesic before ambulation ensures the client is comfortable enough to participate in mobility exercises, which are critical for preventing postoperative complications.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the client's postoperative status.
The client had an open abdominal surgery one day ago and needs basic care measures.
Understanding the procedure helps identify appropriate comfort and safety interventions.
2
Evaluate the safety of the proposed positioning techniques.
Actions such as placing a blanket behind the knees or keeping the bed completely flat are identified as hazardous.
These specific positions increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis and respiratory compromise.
3
Select interventions that actively promote comfort without causing harm.
Incision splinting, frequent repositioning, and preemptive pain management are chosen.
These basic care strategies safely reduce postoperative pain while encouraging vital mobility and respiratory function.

Key Concept

Postoperative basic care, safety, and positioning
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Topics

Basic Care and Comfort

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