Question

A 70-year-old woman has been admitted prior to a bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Which of the following elements should the nurse include in the patient's preoperative teaching?

1) Information about various options for reconstructive surgery
2) Information about the risks and benefits of her particular surgery
3) Information about risk factors for breast cancer and the role of screening
4) Information about where in the hospital she will be taken postoperatively
5) Information about performing postoperative deep breathing and coughing exercises

Answer 1

The nurse should include information about various options for reconstructive surgery, risks and benefits of the patient's surgery, and performing postoperative exercises in the patient's preoperative teaching.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include several elements in the patient's preoperative teaching.

1. Information about various options for reconstructive surgery: The nurse should provide information about the different types of breast reconstruction surgery available so that the patient can make an informed decision.
2. Information about the risks and benefits of her particular surgery: The nurse should explain the potential risks and benefits specifically related to the patient's bilateral mastectomy and breast reconstruction.
3. Information about performing postoperative deep breathing and coughing exercises: The nurse should educate the patient on the importance of deep breathing and coughing exercises after surgery to prevent complications such as pneumonia.