ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 1 related questions and content

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client following a heart transplant. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

  • A. Immunosuppressant medications need to be taken for up to 1 year
  • B. Shortness of breath might be an indication of transplant rejection
  • C. The surgical site will heal in 3 to 4 weeks after surgery
  • D. Begin 45 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per day following discharge
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Shortness of breath is an important sign of transplant rejection. Other manifestations of rejection include fatigue, edema, bradycardia, and hypotension. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because: A) Immunosuppressant medications are typically required for life, not just up to 1 year. C) The surgical site healing time can vary and may take longer than 3 to 4 weeks. D) Starting a specific exercise regimen should be individualized and guided by healthcare providers; a general recommendation like 45 minutes of exercise per day may not be suitable for all heart transplant recipients.