Final answer:
The nursing plan of care for a bariatric surgery patient a few hours postoperatively includes monitoring the abdominal incision, teaching coughing and deep breathing, applying sequential compression devices, providing pain medication, and maintaining the head of bed at a maximum of 15 degrees.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing plan of care for a bariatric surgery patient a few hours postoperatively would include:
- Monitoring the abdominal incision frequently to check for any signs of infection or complications.
- Teaching the patient to cough and deep breathe to prevent respiratory complications and promote lung expansion.
- Applying sequential compression devices to both legs to prevent deep vein thrombosis.
- Providing pain medications as needed to manage the patient's pain.
- Maintaining the head of bed to a maximum of 15 degrees to prevent aspiration.