Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 81%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a postoperative client. Which intervention should the nurse identify as important to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Encourage the use of an incentive spirometer. This intervention is important to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications because it helps the client to take deep breaths and fully expand their lungs, preventing atelectasis and improving oxygenation. Using an incentive spirometer also helps to clear secretions and improve lung function postoperatively.
Other choices are incorrect because:
A: Placing suction equipment at the bedside is important for airway management but does not directly prevent postoperative pulmonary complications.
B: Administering a prophylactic expectorant may help with mucus clearance but does not address lung expansion and prevention of complications.
D: Performing range of motion exercises is important for preventing muscle stiffness but does not specifically target postoperative pulmonary complications.
Other choices are incorrect because:
A: Placing suction equipment at the bedside is important for airway management but does not directly prevent postoperative pulmonary complications.
B: Administering a prophylactic expectorant may help with mucus clearance but does not address lung expansion and prevention of complications.
D: Performing range of motion exercises is important for preventing muscle stiffness but does not specifically target postoperative pulmonary complications.