A client is clearly uncomfortable and anxious in the preoperative ...

[hbsimmons88]

A client is clearly uncomfortable and anxious in the preoperative holding room waiting for emergent abdominal surgery. What actions can the nurse perform to increase comfort? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Allow the client to assume a position of comfort.
  b. Allow the client's family to remain at the bedside.
  c. Give the client a warm, non-caffeinated drink.
  d. Provide warm blankets or cool washcloths as desired.
  e. Pull the curtains around the bed to provide privacy.

Question 2

A student nurse asks why older adults are at higher risk for complications after surgery. What reasons does the registered nurse give? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Decreased cardiac output
  b. Decreased oxygenation
  c. Frequent nocturia
  d. Mobility alterations
  e. Inability to adapt to changes

[dmurph1496]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, D, E
There are many nonpharmacologic comfort measures the nurse can employ, such as allowing the client to remain in the position that is most comfortable, letting the family stay with the client, providing warmth or cooling measures as requested by the client, and providing privacy. The client in the preoperative holding area is NPO, so drinks should not be provided.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, C, D
Older adults have many age-related physiologic changes that put them at higher risk of falling and other complications after surgery. Some of these include decreased cardiac output, decreased oxygenation of tissues, nocturia, and mobility alterations. They also have a decreased ability to adapt to new surroundings, but that is not the same as being unable to adapt.