Test Bank for Medical Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Interprofessional Collaborative Care 10th Edition - Care of Patients with Problems of the Biliary System and Pancreas Related

Review Test Bank for Medical Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Interprofessional Collaborative Care 10th Edition - Care of Patients with Problems of the Biliary System and Pancreas related questions and content

A nurse cares for a client who reports free air pain after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Which action should the nurse take?

  • A. Assist the client with early ambulation.
  • B. Apply a cold compress to the abdomen.
  • C. Provide a warm beverage to relieve pain.
  • D. Encourage coughing and deep breathing every hour.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The client who has undergone a laparoscopic cholecystectomy may report free air pain due to retention of carbon dioxide in the abdomen. The nurse assists the client with early ambulation to promote absorption of the carbon dioxide. Cold compresses and drinking a warm beverage would not be helpful. Coughing and deep breathing are important postoperative activities, but they are not related to discomfort from carbon dioxide.