Final answer:
Postoperative instructions after a rhinoplasty include lying on the back with the head elevated to reduce swelling and promote healing. Aspirin and warm compresses are to be avoided to prevent increased bleeding and swelling. Understanding the function of nasal passages, such as air humidification and warming, informs post-surgery care recommendations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse providing discharge instructions to the client postoperative following a rhinoplasty must include several key points to ensure proper recovery. Among the options presented, the correct instruction to include is to lie on your back with your head elevated 30° when resting. This position helps reduce swelling and promotes optimal breathing during the healing process. Applying warm compresses to the face is generally not recommended immediately following surgery due to the risk of increasing swelling. It is also advised to avoid medications that can promote bleeding, such as aspirin; taking aspirin 650 mg for mild pain is not suitable as it could increase the risk of bleeding. When sneezing, it's recommended to sneeze with the mouth open to decrease pressure on the nasal passages.
Understanding the function of the nasal passages is critical after a rhinoplasty. Air is warmed and humidified in the nasal passages, which serves multiple purposes including warding off infection, decreasing sensitivity during breathing, and preventing damage to the lungs. Humidifier use and increased fluid intake are also recommended under certain conditions such as pregnancy or cold and dry weather to counteract congestion due to the swelling of the respiratory mucosa.