The nurse is instructing a client recovering from arterial ...

[ap345]

The nurse is instructing a client recovering from arterial aneurysm repair. Which of the following should be included in these instructions? (Select all that apply.)
 
  1. Do not lift anything heavier than 15 to 20 lbs.
  2. Limit activity for up to 8 weeks after the surgery.
  3. Use a pillow to splint when coughing.
  4. Driving is permitted 1 week after surgery.
  5. Notify the physician for pain, redness, or swelling around the incision.
  6. Avoid pain medication.

Question 2

A client is observed holding a pillow over the abdominal region with both knees flexed in a side-lying position. Vital signs assessment reveals an elevated blood pressure and heart rate. Which of the following should the nurse say to this client?
 
  1. Can I get you anything?
  2. Would you like something for pain?
  3. You look comfortable.
  4. Your blood pressure is up.

[tanna.moeller]

Answer to Question 1

1, 2, 3, 5
Instructions appropriate after surgery to repair an arterial aneurysm include limit lifting to 15 to 20 lbs; limit activity for up to 8 weeks after the surgery; use a pillow to splint when coughing; and notify the physician for pain, redness, or swelling around the incision. Driving may be restricted for several weeks. Pain medication will be prescribed and encouraged to be used.

Answer to Question 2

2
Sympathetic responses to pain include elevated blood pressure and heart rate. And since the client is hugging a pillow over the abdominal region with both knees flexed in a side-lying position, the best thing for the nurse to say to this client is Would you like something for pain? The other responses are incorrect because they do not acknowledge that the client is experiencing pain.