Pediatric CCRN Practice Questions Related

Review Pediatric CCRN Practice Questions related questions and content

The patient is dangling at the bedside and states, "Oh, my stomach is tearing open." Which of the following actions should the nurse immediately take when dehiscence occurs?

  • A. Have patient sit upright in a chair.
  • B. Have patient lie down.
  • C. Slow IV fluids.
  • D. Obtain a sterile suture set.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When dehiscence, which is the separation of the layers of a surgical incision, occurs in a patient, it is important to have the patient lie down. This position will help decrease intra-abdominal pressure and reduce the risk of further complications. Having the patient sit upright in a chair can increase intra-abdominal pressure, worsening the dehiscence. Slowing IV fluids may be necessary to prevent fluid overload in certain situations, but it is not the immediate action required when dehiscence occurs. Obtain a sterile suture set may eventually be needed, but the priority in this situation is to stabilize the patient by having them lie down.