Final answer:
The nurse should ensure that the abdominal binder is snug and secure. It is used to provide support post-surgery, reduce the risk of incisional complications, and assist in pain management. Regular checking of the incision site is important while the binder is in place.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement regarding the care for a patient with an abdominal binder following abdominal surgery with a midline incision is that the nurse should ensure that the abdominal binder is snug and secure. The abdominal binder is designed to provide support to the abdominal area post-surgery, reduce the risk of incision dehiscence (where the wound reopens), and to help with pain management. However, while the binder should be snug to provide support, it should not be so tight as to impede circulation or cause discomfort.
In addition, it's important for nurses to regularly check the incision site for signs of infection, proper healing, and to observe for any complications. Therefore, removing the binder for incision assessment and care is a routine aspect of postoperative management. It is incorrect to apply the binder loosely, as it will not provide the intended support, and similarly incorrect to avoid checking the patient's incision site while the binder is in place, as regular monitoring is essential.
The nurse should not remove the abdominal binder immediately after surgery, as it is typically used to provide continuous support during the initial postoperative period. The exact duration for which an abdominal binder should be worn will depend on the surgeon’s protocol and the individual patient’s needs.