Author Question: A client had a vaginoplasty under epidural anesthetic. Which action by the nurse is most important? ... (Read 26 times)

chads108 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client had a vaginoplasty under epidural anesthetic. Which action by the nurse is most important?

a. Ensure that the urinary catheter is securely attached to the leg.
b. Instruct the client not to try to get out of bed unassisted.
c. Monitor the client's dressings and wound drainage.
d. Position the Jackson-Pratt drain to the contralateral side.

Question 2

A client is preparing for gender reassignment surgery and will transition from male to female. The client is worried about the voice not sounding feminine enough. What action by the nurse is best?

a. Ask if the client has considered vocal cord surgery to change the voice.
b. Refer the client for vocal therapy with speech-language pathology.
c. Teach the client that there will be no effect on the client's voice.
d. Tell the client that the use of hormones will eventually change the voice.

Fayaz00962 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Epidural anesthesia will cause the client to not be able to move (or feel) the legs for several hours. It is important for client safety that adequate help is available prior to this client trying to get out of bed. Securing the catheter to the leg and monitoring dressings and drainage are important for any client after surgery. Positioning the drain to the contralateral side is not needed.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Male-to-female clients can consult with a speech-language pathologist for vocal training to help with intonation and pitch. While vocal surgery is possible, it may not be the best first option due to cost and invasiveness. Telling the client there will be no change to the voice does not give the client information to address the concern. While the hormones this client is taking will not affect the voice, simply stating that fact does not help the client manage this issue.