MSC NCLEX Physiological Integrity Related

Review MSC NCLEX Physiological Integrity related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client who has undergone transsphenoidal surgery for a pituitary adenoma. In the postoperative period, which information should the nurse provide to the client to minimize the risk for surgery-related injury?

  • A. Cough and deep breathe hourly.
  • B. Nasal packing will be removed after 48 hours.
  • C. Report frequent swallowing or postnasal drip.
  • D. Acetaminophen is prescribed for severe postsurgical headache.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The client should report frequent swallowing or postnasal drip or nasal drainage after transsphenoidal surgery because it could indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. The client should deep breathe, but coughing is contraindicated because it could cause increased intracranial pressure. The surgeon removes the nasal packing placed during surgery, usually after 24 hours. The client should also report severe headache because it could indicate increased intracranial pressure.