Question

A patient is postoperative for craniotomy surgery to remove a tumor in the brain. The nurse notes periorbital edema and ecchymoses of both eyes. Which action is correct?

a) Document the findings as normal after surgery
b) Notify the healthcare provider immediately
c) Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
d) Administer pain medication as prescribed

Answer 1

After craniotomy surgery, periorbital edema and ecchymoses are common symptoms due to surgical manipulation. The correct action is to document these findings as normal postoperative observations unless other complications arise.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient who is postoperative for craniotomy surgery and presenting with periorbital edema and ecchymoses of both eyes is experiencing common symptoms that can occur after such a procedure. These signs are typically due to the surgical manipulation and the location of the surgery, which can lead to fluid accumulation and bruising around the eyes. The correct action would be to a) Document the findings as normal after surgery, as long as there are no accompanying signs of complications like excessive redness, increased pain, fever, or a change in consciousness, which would warrant immediate notification of the healthcare provider.