Question

On the first postoperative day, a patient who underwent a cholecystectomy complains of shortness of breath. The x-ray indicates that the patient has atelectasis. Which intervention could prevent this complication?

1) Incentive spirometry
2) Early mobilization of the patient
3) Nebulization of the patient after surgery
4) Administration of oxygen to the patient

Answer 1

Incentive spirometry and early mobilization of the patient are specifically effective interventions to prevent atelectasis, a complication characterized by collapsed airways postoperatively, like after a cholecystectomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent a complication such as atelectasis after surgery like a cholecystectomy, several interventions can be utilized. Interventions include:

1. Incentive spirometry encourages voluntary deep breathing and helps keep the airways open by promoting the expansion of the lungs.
2. Early mobilization of the patient, helps improve ventilation and reduce the risk of lung collapse by allowing gravity to help expand the lungs as the patient moves.
3. Nebulization of the patient after surgery, can help hydrate the airways and thin secretions, facilitating breathing.
4. Administration of oxygen to the patient ensures that the patient has enough oxygen in their system, and can help maintain lung volumes.

While all the interventions listed are useful post-surgical practices, incentive spirometry and early mobilization are particularly effective in preventing atelectasis.