Question

The nurse is caring for a patient following an appendectomy. The patient takes a deep breath, coughs, and then winces in pain. Which of the following statements, if made by the nurse to the patient, is BEST?

1) Take shallow breaths to avoid pain.
2) Continue taking deep breaths and coughing to prevent complications.
3) Avoid coughing to minimize pain.
4) Take pain medication to alleviate discomfort.

Answer 1

The patient should be encouraged to continue taking deep breaths and coughing despite the pain to avoid respiratory complications, and can use pain medication to help manage discomfort.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is caring for a patient following an appendectomy. The best response from the nurse to the patient, who winces in pain after taking a deep breath and coughing, would be: "Continue taking deep breaths and coughing to prevent complications."

Deep breathing and coughing help clear the lungs and prevent respiratory complications such as pneumonia, which is important post-surgery. It is also beneficial for the patient to take pain medication to manage discomfort if needed, as this will help them perform necessary respiratory exercises more effectively.