health assessment exam 2 test bank Related

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A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following abdominal surgery. The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions to prevent complications?

  • A. Encouraging early ambulation and use of compression stockings.
  • B. Administering pain medication regularly.
  • C. Monitoring for signs of infection.
  • D. Providing nutritional support and hydration.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Encouraging early ambulation and use of compression stockings is crucial post-abdominal surgery to prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis and pneumonia. Ambulation helps prevent blood clots and promotes lung expansion. Compression stockings aid in preventing blood pooling in the legs. Administering pain medication regularly (B) is important but not the priority. Monitoring for infection (C) is essential but not the priority immediately post-op. Providing nutritional support and hydration (D) is important but not as critical as preventing immediate complications.