which nursing measure would be most effective in helping the client cough and deep breathe after a cholecystectomy
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. Which nursing measure would be most effective in helping the client cough and deep breathe after a cholecystectomy?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After a cholecystectomy, teaching the client to use a folded blanket or pillow to splint the incision will be most effective in helping the client cough and deep breathe. This technique provides support and reduces pain during coughing and deep breathing, promoting better lung expansion. Having the client take rapid, shallow breaths would not be effective in decreasing pain; instead, deep breathing is encouraged to prevent complications like atelectasis. Lying on the left side would limit lung expansion; therefore, the client should be positioned in semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position to maximize lung expansion. Withholding pain medication can lead to discomfort and reluctance to cough and deep breathe, hindering recovery.

2. A client with rectal cancer may exhibit which of the following symptoms?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rectal bleeding is a common symptom in clients with rectal cancer.

3. Your goal is to minimize David’s risk of complications after a heriorrhaphy. You instruct the patient to:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Instruct the patient to splint the incision if he can't avoid sneezing or coughing to minimize the risk of complications after heriorrhaphy.

4. You’re caring for Betty with liver cirrhosis. Which of the following assessment findings leads you to suspect hepatic encephalopathy in her?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, is a sign of hepatic encephalopathy.

5. After an abdominal resection for colon cancer, Madeline returns to her room with a Jackson-Pratt drain in place. The purpose of the drain is to:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of the Jackson-Pratt drain is to prevent the accumulation of drainage in the wound after an abdominal resection.

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