Question

A 51-year-old woman has recently had a unilateral, right total mastectomy and axillary node dissection. What nursing intervention should be included in the patient's care?

A) Immobilize the right arm to prevent pain.
B) Encourage active use of the right arm.
C) Avoid performing range-of-motion exercises on the right arm.
D) Suggest carrying heavy bags with the right arm.

Answer 1

A nursing intervention that should be included in the patient's care after a unilateral mastectomy is to immobilize the right arm to prevent pain. Activities that can strain the surgical site should be avoided and range-of-motion exercises on the left arm should be encouraged. Carrying heavy bags with the right arm should be avoided.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nursing intervention that should be included in the care of a 51-year-old woman who has recently had a unilateral, right total mastectomy and axillary node dissection is to immobilize the right arm to prevent pain.

After surgery, it is common for patients to experience pain and discomfort, and immobilizing the right arm can help alleviate these symptoms and promote healing. It is important for the patient to avoid strenuous activities and movements that could strain the surgical site. The patient should also be encouraged to perform regular range-of-motion exercises on the left arm to prevent complications such as lymphedema.

On the other hand, the patient should avoid carrying heavy bags with the right arm to prevent strain and potential injury to the surgical site.