Question

A client 57 years of age is recovering in a hospital following a bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction two days earlier. Since her surgery, the client has been unwilling to mobilize despite the nurse's education on the benefits of early mobilization following surgery. The nurse would recognize that the client's prolonged immobility creates a risk for what?

A. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
B. Respiratory distress
C. Increased blood pressure
D. Constipation

Answer 1

Prolonged immobility after surgery, such as a bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction, significantly increases the client's risk for developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), along with other potential complications including respiratory distress, pressure sores, and urinary tract infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client recovering from a bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction who is unwilling to mobilize faces multiple risks due to prolonged immobility. In particular, the nurse would recognize that the client's lack of movement significantly increases the risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). This condition involves the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins, frequently in the legs. The immobility following surgery can lead to blood pooling and clotting, which can break off and travel to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism; this is in addition to the risk of other complications such as respiratory distress from poor air exchange, pressure sores, and urinary tract infections.

Overall, early mobilization is essential to prevent these complications. Active movement encourages better blood circulation and helps in preventing clot formation. Given that elder patients, like those with osteoporotic fractures, are more prone to DVT following periods of immobility, it is critical for healthcare providers to encourage and assist patients in appropriate physical activity post-operation to mitigate risks of disease complications.