NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiological Adaptation Related

Review NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiological Adaptation related questions and content

The nurse caring for a client after right radical mastectomy includes which intervention in the nursing plan of care for this client?

  • A. Takes blood pressures in the right arm only
  • B. Draws serum laboratory samples from the right arm only
  • C. Positions the client supine and flat with the right arm elevated on a pillow
  • D. Checks the right posterior axilla area when assessing the surgical dressing
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If there is drainage or bleeding from the surgical site after mastectomy, gravity will cause the drainage to seep down and soak the posterior axillary portion of the dressing first. The nurse checks this area to detect early bleeding. Blood pressure measurement, venipuncture, and intravenous sites should not involve use of the operative arm. The client should be positioned with the head in semi-Fowler's position and the arm on the operative side elevated on pillows to decrease edema.