Safe and Effective Care Environment NCLEX RN Questions Related

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A client is post-op day #1 after a hemilaminectomy. The nurse removes the dressing as ordered and notes that the incision appears slightly red, with a small amount of serous drainage coming from the site. The edges of the incision are approximated. What is the next action of the nurse?

  • A. Assist the client to shower as ordered and monitor the site for further changes
  • B. Instruct the client to lie prone to allow the site to dry
  • C. Place antibiotic ointment and a sterile dressing over the site
  • D. Notify the physician for an antibiotic order
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: An incision that appears slightly red with a small amount of serous drainage on the first day following surgery is going through a normal healing process. It is important to keep the incision clean. In this case, the nurse should assist the client to shower as ordered to maintain hygiene and monitor for changes in the incision site. Instructing the client to lie prone may not be necessary and could cause discomfort. Applying antibiotic ointment without a specific order is not recommended as it can interfere with the healing process. Notifying the physician for an antibiotic order is premature at this stage since the incision is showing normal signs of healing.