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A 78-year-old patient is having surgery. What risk areas will the nurse need to be especially aware of for this patient during surgery?

1. Sterility
2. Paralysis
3. Urine output
4. Skin integrity

User Kheld
by
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1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

1.Sterility 3. Urine output 4. Skin integrity In surgery, a nurse must focus on sterility, urine output, and skin integrity for an elderly patient, as these are critical care aspects that can affect recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a 78-year-old patient undergoing surgery, the nurse will need to be especially aware of several risk areas relevant to geriatric patients. These include ensuring sterility during medical procedures to prevent sepsis, closely monitoring urine output to prevent urinary retention and related complications, and maintaining skin integrity due to the susceptibility of older patients to skin injury and delayed healing. While paralysis may be a concern depending on the type of surgery and patient's preexisting conditions, it is not typically an age-specific risk factor.

During the surgery of a 78-year-old patient, the nurse will need to be especially aware of the following risk areas:Sterility: It is crucial to maintain a sterile field during surgery to prevent sepsis and infections.Urine output: Elderly individuals may have reduced bladder function, and surgical procedures can further impact urine output. The nurse should monitor the patient's urine output to ensure proper kidney function.Skin integrity: Aging skin is more susceptible to injury and slower healing. The nurse should pay close attention to prevent pressure ulcers and skin breakdown during the surgery.

User Wingjam
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