Question

The nurse is caring for a client following a hysterectomy. The following nursing action is most likely to circumvent wound dehiscence.

a. Encouraging the client to reposition from side-to-side
b. Instructing the client to bear down when having bowel movements
c. Repositioning the client with a draw sheet
d. Teaching the client to use a pillow to splint when coughing

Answer 1

The nursing action that is most likely to circumvent wound dehiscence following a hysterectomy is teaching the client to use a pillow to splint when coughing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct nursing action to circumvent wound dehiscence following a hysterectomy is d. Teaching the client to use a pillow to splint when coughing. This action helps to minimize the strain on the surgical site during coughing, thus reducing the risk of the wound opening up. Wound dehiscence refers to the separation or opening of the surgical incision. It is essential to protect the incision and promote proper healing to avoid complications.

Encouraging the client to reposition from side-to-side (option a) helps prevent pressure ulcers, but it does not directly address wound dehiscence. Instructing the client to bear down when having bowel movements (option b) can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may put strain on the wound. Repositioning the client with a draw sheet (option c) aids in mobility but does not specifically prevent wound dehiscence.