Question

The nurse is providing preoperative teaching to a client scheduled for a cholecystectomy. Which intervention would be of the highest priority in the preoperative teaching plan?

a) Discussing postoperative pain management
b) Demonstrating how to use an incentive spirometer
c) Explaining the importance of ambulation after surgery
d) Emphasizing the need for strict adherence to the preoperative fasting guidelines

Answer 1

The highest priority intervention in preoperative teaching for a cholecystectomy is emphasizing the need for strict adherence to preoperative fasting guidelines to prevent the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

Step-by-step explanation:

In providing preoperative teaching to a client scheduled for a cholecystectomy, the highest priority intervention would likely be emphasizing the need for strict adherence to the preoperative fasting guidelines. This is critical to prevent aspiration during anesthesia, which can lead to serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia. While discussing postoperative pain management, demonstrating how to use an incentive spirometer, and explaining the importance of ambulation after surgery are all important aspects of preoperative education, the immediate safety concern of aspiration places fasting guidelines at the top of the list.

During the preoperative period, the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional typically review aloud key concerns for the recovery and care of the patient, ensuring understanding and compliance with essential instructions for a safe procedure and optimal recovery.