Question

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to the client. Which of the following statements made by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching? (Select all that apply.)

A. "I won't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before my surgery."
B. "I can continue taking my herbal supplements up until the morning of the surgery."
C. "I'll remove my nail polish before coming to the hospital."
D. "I'll need to arrange for someone to drive me home after the surgery."

Answer 1

The client's understanding of discharge instructions is shown by not eating or drinking after midnight before surgery, removing nail polish, and arranging a ride home; incorrect is continuing herbal supplements.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client's understanding of the discharge instructions can be determined by their statements. In this scenario, correct statements reflecting an understanding of pre-operative instructions would typically include not eating or drinking after midnight before surgery, removing nail polish (as it can interfere with pulse oximetry), and arranging for transportation home after surgery due to potential post-operative impairments such as drowsiness from anesthesia. However, it is generally advised to stop taking herbal supplements before surgery as they can interact with anesthetics and other medications, potentially leading to complications.

The surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional review these instructions during what is known as a 'time out' and 'sign in' to ensure all aspects of care are understood and agreed upon before the procedure. During 'sign in', before the induction of anesthesia, and 'time out', before skin incision, the team orally confirms key concerns for the patient's safety and recovery.