Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyBasic Care and Comfort

After undergoing a right-sided mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection, a client is admitted to the surgical recovery unit. The healthcare provider prescribes basic interventions to prevent lymphedema in the affected extremity. Which positioning strategy is correct for the client's right arm?

  1. Elevated on a pillow above the level of the heartAnswer
  2. B
    Placed flat on the mattress directly beside the torso
  3. C
    Immobilized tightly across the chest in a standard medical sling
  4. D
    Positioned in a dependent manner below the level of the mattress

Answer

The right arm should be elevated on a pillow above the level of the heart.
Following a mastectomy with lymph node dissection, elevating the affected arm on a pillow above the level of the heart is a fundamental comfort and basic care measure. This position uses gravity to promote continuous lymphatic and venous drainage, thereby preventing or reducing the onset of lymphedema.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the surgical procedure and its associated risks.
The client had a mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection, which disrupts normal lymphatic drainage and places the client at high risk for lymphedema.
Understanding the physiological impact of the surgery dictates the required basic care interventions.
2
Determine the basic care principles for preventing edema in an extremity.
Raising the extremity above the level of the heart is required.
Elevation uses gravity to facilitate the return of venous blood and lymphatic fluid back toward the central circulation.

Key Concept

Postoperative Positioning for Lymphedema Prevention
Rate this question

Topics

Basic Care and Comfort

More questions from this topic