Question

The nurse is developing a teaching plan for a client following a radical mastectomy and includes measures that will assist in preventing lymphedema of the affected arm. The nurse should include which interventions when reviewing instructions with the client to prevent this complication? Select all that apply.

1.Elevate the affected arm on a pillow higher than the heart. 2.Place a cool compress or ice bag on the affected arm at bedtime.
3.Instruct the client to perform simple arm exercises in the affected arm daily. 4.Inspect the arm daily and notify the primary health care provider of redness or swelling.
5.Make sure that clothing fits snugly around the arm and wrap the arm with an ace wrap at bedtime.

Answer 1

To prevent lymphedema after a radical mastectomy, the nurse should include interventions such as elevating the affected arm, performing arm exercises, and inspecting the arm daily for signs of redness or swelling.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent lymphedema of the affected arm following a radical mastectomy, the nurse should include the following interventions:

1. Elevate the affected arm on a pillow higher than the heart. This helps to drain excess fluid from the arm and encourages lymph flow.
2. Instruct the client to perform simple arm exercises in the affected arm daily. This promotes muscle strength and improves lymphatic circulation.
3. Inspect the arm daily and notify the primary healthcare provider of any redness or swelling. Early detection of these signs can help prevent further complications.

It's important for the client to avoid placing a cool compress or ice bag on the affected arm at bedtime. Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, impeding fluid flow. Moreover, it is not advisable to make sure that clothing fits snugly around the arm and wrap the arm with an ace wrap at bedtime as this can also restrict lymphatic flow and cause pooling of fluid in the arm.