Author Question: The nurse is preparing a woman for discharge following a left radical mastectomy. Important teaching ... (Read 56 times)

a0266361136 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The nurse is preparing a woman for discharge following a left radical mastectomy. Important teaching for this client includes:

1. Abstaining from sex for at least 6-8 weeks following surgery.
2. Resuming her oral birth control medication immediately.
3. Range of motion exercises for the involved arm.
4. Use of a splint for the involved arm until the tissue fully heals.

Question 2

The nurse is reviewing the laboratory studies of a client, and notes a serum sodium value of 168 mEq/L. Expected clinical manifestations of this value would include:

1. Oliguria and fever.
2. Constipation and decreased blood pressure.
3. Muscle tremor and arrhythmias.
4. Dizziness and confusion.

cloud · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3
Rationale: Following a radical mastectomy, it is important that the client begin range of motion exercises, such as climbing the wall with her fingers, in order to regain full range of motion in the affected arm. There is no need to abstain from sex once she feels well enough to consider it, and oral birth control medications will most likely be discontinued by the doctor because breast cancer is often hormone-dependent, and could increase the risk of metastasis. The arm should not be splinted, and gentle movement and activity will be encouraged.

Answer to Question 2

1
Rationale: Oliguria; fever; thirst; flushed skin; and dry, sticky mucous membranes are common manifestations of hypernatremia.