Adult Health 1 Final Exam Related

Review Adult Health 1 Final Exam related questions and content

The nurse observes that a post-operative client's surgical wound has reddened edges and is oozing. What is the appropriate nursing action?

  • A. Apply an antibiotic ointment
  • B. Clean the wound with sterile saline
  • C. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing
  • D. Notify the surgeon immediately
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action when a post-operative client's surgical wound has reddened edges and is oozing is to notify the surgeon immediately. Reddened, oozing wound edges can indicate an infection that requires prompt evaluation and intervention by the surgical team. Applying an antibiotic ointment (Choice A) without proper assessment and guidance can be inappropriate. Cleaning the wound with sterile saline (Choice B) and covering it with a sterile dressing (Choice C) may not address the potential infection adequately, and the client may require more specialized care that the surgeon can provide.