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When caring for a newly delivered woman, the nurse is aware that the best measure to prevent abdominal distention after a cesarean birth is:

a. Rectal suppositories.
b. Early and frequent ambulation.
c. Tightening and relaxing abdominal muscles.
d. Carbonated beverages.

User Ayanamist
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Early and frequent ambulation is the best measure to prevent abdominal distention after a cesarean birth, as it facilitates healing and reduces the risk of gas build-up. Breastfeeding also aids this process by enhancing uterine contractions during involution. so, option b is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best measure to prevent abdominal distention after a cesarean birth is early and frequent ambulation. This assists with the hastening of the recovery process following a caesarean section, which is a major abdominal surgery that can lead to post-surgical complications. Active movement encourages the body to heal and reduces the risk of post-surgical gas build-up and constipation in the mother's digestive system. In contrast, rectal suppositories may be used for treating constipation, but they're not the primary measure for preventing distention. Tightening and relaxing abdominal muscles can be helpful for toning the muscles but are not the primary method for preventing gas build-up. Carbonated beverages could actually increase abdominal gas and therefore should be avoided post-surgery.

Breastfeeding may also facilitate the process of involution, which is the reduction of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size and helps the abdominal organs return to their pre-pregnancy locations. Moreover, uterine contractions continue for several hours after birth, and breastfeeding can enhance these contractions, thus aiding in reducing the potential for abdominal distention.

User MikeFHay
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