Question

An older adult who experienced a complication during an open cardiac surgery 4 weeks ago has been on prolonged bed rest during recovery. The nurse is new to the client and is reviewing the chart prior to assuming care.

Answer 1

The question involves an older adult with postoperative complications from cardiac surgery, emphasizing the importance of postoperative care and infection control in preventing further health issues. Elderly patients like Barbara and Robert illustrate the potential severity of such complications, leading, in Barbara's case, to sepsis and organ failure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The situation describes an older adult recovering from complications following an open cardiac surgery. This person has been on prolonged bed rest, which can increase the risk of issues such as pressure sores or deep vein thrombosis.

In the case of Barbara, a 43-year-old patient diagnosed with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer, the development of a localized infection at the site of her central venous catheter emphasizes the importance of vigilant post-operative care to prevent complications. Barbara's progression to sepsis and eventual organ failure demonstrates the critical nature of infection management in immunocompromised patients.

Similarly, Robert, an 81-year-old with early-onset Alzheimer's, developed a fever associated with cystitis shortly after moving to a nursing home. This highlights the increased susceptibility of the elderly to infections like urinary tract infections.

These clinical scenarios underscore the need for continued patient monitoring, adherence to infection control practices, and timely interventions by healthcare providers to prevent and manage postoperative complications and infections.