Question

A nurse is assessing wound drainage during the immediate postoperative period for a client who has had a gall bladder removed. In addition to assessing the dressing, where should the nurse check for drainage?

a) in the axilla
b) under the client
c) under the skin
d) on the output sheet

Answer 1

The nurse should check for postoperative drainage under the client, in addition to the dressing, after a gall bladder removal to assess for any fluid accumulation that could indicate complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse is assessing wound drainage during the immediate postoperative period for a client who has had a gall bladder removed, in addition to assessing the dressing, the nurse should check for drainage under the client (option b). It's important to ensure that no additional fluid accumulation is occurring that might indicate an issue such as infection or a leak from the surgical site. The client's position and the effects of gravity may cause drainage to accumulate under their body, making it a crucial area for assessment by the healthcare professional.