Final answer:
The postoperative care for a patient undergoing a left pneumonectomy includes frequent use of an incentive spirometer and the placement of chest tubes for drainage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The postoperative care for a patient undergoing a left pneumonectomy for lung cancer includes frequent use of an incentive spirometer. An incentive spirometer is a device that helps the patient expand their lungs and prevent respiratory complications after surgery. By using the incentive spirometer regularly, the patient can improve lung function and prevent atelectasis, which is the collapse of lung tissue.
In addition to the incentive spirometer, the postoperative care may also include other measures such as chest tubes to water-seal chest drainage. Chest tubes are inserted into the chest to drain excess fluid and air from the surgical site, promoting healing and preventing complications.
It is important for the patient to follow the nurse's instructions on using the incentive spirometer and caring for the chest tubes to ensure a successful recovery.