Final answer:
The most important thing to teach a client who had a mastectomy before leaving the hospital is why self-examination of the remaining breast is important.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important thing to teach a client who had a mastectomy before she leaves the hospital is why self-examination of the remaining breast is important. Regular self-examinations can help in the early detection of any changes or abnormalities in the breast tissue, which is crucial for post-mastectomy care. By regularly examining the remaining breast, the client can look for any signs of recurrence or new lumps, and seek medical attention promptly if any concerns arise.
While it is important to provide information about the need for a breast prosthesis, understanding the importance of self-examination takes precedence as it directly relates to the client's ongoing health and well-being.
Additionally, it is important to provide information about which of the more strenuous activities to curtail and what household tasks to avoid that require stretching. Both of these factors are crucial for the client to ensure proper healing and to reduce the risk of complications. Restricting strenuous activities and avoiding tasks that involve excessive stretching can help prevent strain on the surgical site and promote a smooth recovery.