Pre/Post Op
What should the nurse do if a patient is confused about a procedure?
Ask the patient what the doctor told them and call the doctor if needed
This nursing intervention can be implemented to prevent DVT
Frequent ambulation
A patient is experiencing wound dehiscence after a colon surgery. What is the first nursing action?
Cover the wound with saline soaked sterile dressings
What is a major safety risk after surgery?
Falls
Anesthesiologist
What postoperative assessment reveals understanding of the preoperative incentive spirometer teaching?
Clear breath sounds
This is best technique when evaluating pain relief.
Ask the patient to rate their pain on a scale from 1 to 10
A nurse is assessing a patient who had conscious sedation for a cardiac catheterization. What would be a reportable finding?
Difficulty arousing the patient
What class of medications should be discontinued before a liver biopsy?
Anticoagulants, blood thinners
These must be stable in the postanesthesia care unit in order to transfer the patient to the surgical unit.
Vital signs
What information should the nurse obtain during the preoperative assessment?
Allergies, medications, and past medical history/conditions
What can be suggested to prevent the effects of postoperative immobility on the GI system?
Increase fluid intake
Why is it important for a nurse to assess a patient's extremities and position them frequently after regional anesthesia?
Pain is not perceived
This is a common respiratory risk after surgery and can be prevented by coughing, turning, and deep breathing.
Pneumonia
What is the goal of palliative surgery?
Relieve symptoms without correcting the basic problem
A patient has not voided since surgery about 9 hours ago and has a distended bladder. What should the nurse do first?
Give them a chance to void by sitting on the side of the bed
What should the nurse ensure when caring for a patient after cataract surgery?
No coughing or straining (avoid pressure on the eyes)
Which assessment is key in determining the risk for malignant hyperthermia?
Family history of problems with general anesthesia
This is a common over the counter medication that should be discontinued before a procedure.
Aspirin
What should a nurse assess prior to providing clear liquids to a patient who was previously NPO?
Bowel sounds
This is commonly done prior to bowel surgery and works to reduce the possibility of fecal contamination, among other reasons.
Bowel preparation
What postoperative complications are associated with obesity?
Wound infection and respiratory difficulties
A nurse is assessing a patient postoperatively and notes the patient's blood pressure is low and heart rate is high. What is the initial nursing action?
Check the dressing for bleeding
What disorders pose a hazard to patients after surgery?
Diabetes, hepatitis C, COPD
What education should be provided to patients prior to discharge about their incision site?
Signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, redness, swelling, or increased pain