Author Question: A student is assessing a postoperative client who has developed pneumonia. The plan of care includes ... (Read 99 times)

bcretired · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A student is assessing a postoperative client who has developed pneumonia. The plan of care includes positioning the client in the Fowler's or semi-Fowler's position. What is the rationale for this position?

A) It increases blood flow to the heart.
B) The client will be more comfortable and have less pain.
C) It facilitates nursing assessments of skin color and temperature.
D) It promotes full aeration of the lungs.

Question 2

A nurse is providing ongoing postoperative care to a client who has had knee surgery. The nurse assesses the dressing and finds it saturated with blood. The client is restless and has a rapid pulse. What should the nurse do next?

A) Document the data and apply a new dressing.
B) Apply a pressure dressing and report findings.
C) Reassure the family that this is a common problem.
D) Make assessments every 15 minutes for four hours.

ryhom · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
Pneumonia may occur in the postoperative client from aspiration, immobilization, depressed cough reflex, infection, increased secretions from anesthesia, or dehydration. Nursing interventions include positioning the client in the Fowler or semi-Fowler position to promote full aeration of the lungs.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: B
Hemorrhage is an excessive internal or external loss of blood. Common indications of hemorrhage include a rapid, thready pulse. If bleeding occurs, the nurse should apply a pressure dressing to the site, report findings to the physician, and be prepared to return the client to the operating room if bleeding cannot be stopped or is massive.