HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Quizlet Related

Review HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Quizlet related questions and content

A client who has undergone abdominal surgery calls the nurse and reports that she just felt 'something give way' in the abdominal incision. The nurse checks the incision and notes the presence of wound dehiscence. The nurse immediately:

  • A. Contacts the physician
  • B. Documents the findings
  • C. Places the client in a supine position with the legs flat
  • D. Covers the abdominal wound with a sterile dressing moistened with sterile saline solution
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the scenario described, the presence of wound dehiscence indicates a separation of the layers of the surgical incision. The immediate priority for the nurse is to cover the abdominal wound with a sterile dressing moistened with sterile saline solution. This helps to protect the wound from contamination and promotes a moist environment conducive to healing. Contacting the physician (Choice A) is important, but the initial action should be to address the wound. Documenting the findings (Choice B) is necessary but not the immediate priority. Placing the client in a supine position with the legs flat (Choice C) is not indicated in this situation as wound dehiscence requires wound care intervention.