A 33-year-old patient has a saline breast implant inserted in the ...

[tsand2]

A 33-year-old patient has a saline breast implant inserted in the outpatient surgery area. Which instruction will the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
 
  a. Take aspirin every 4 hours to reduce inflammation.
  b. Check wound drains for excessive blood or a foul odor.
  c. Wear a loose-fitting bra to decrease irritation of the sutures.
  d. Resume normal activities 2 to 3 days after the mammoplasty.

Question 2

Which assessment finding in a 36-year-old patient is most indicative of a need for further evaluation?
 
  a. Bilateral breast nodules that are tender with palpation
  b. A breast nodule that is 1 cm in size, nontender, and fixed
  c. A breast lump that increases in size before the menstrual period
  d. A breast lump that is small, mobile, with a rubbery consistency

[blazinlyss]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The patient should be taught drain care because the drains will be in place for 2 or 3 days after surgery. Normal activities can be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks. A bra that provides good support is typically ordered. Aspirin will decrease coagulation and is typically not given after surgery.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Painless and fixed lumps suggest breast cancer. The other findings are more suggestive of benign processes such as fibrocystic breasts and fibroadenoma.