RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 Related

Review RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and refuses to use an incentive spirometer following major abdominal surgery. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

  • A. Request that a respiratory therapist discuss the technique for incentive spirometry with the client.
  • B. Determine the reasons why the client is refusing to use the incentive spirometer.
  • C. Document the client’s refusal to participate in health restorative activities.
  • D. Administer a pain medication to the client.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Determine the reasons why the client is refusing to use the incentive spirometer. This is the priority because understanding the client's concerns or barriers to using the spirometer allows the nurse to address them effectively, promote the client's recovery, and prevent complications such as pneumonia. Requesting a respiratory therapist (A) can be helpful, but understanding the client's reasons comes first. Documenting refusal (C) is important but does not address the immediate need to assess and intervene. Administering pain medication (D) may provide temporary relief but does not address the root cause of refusal.