Question

A postoperative patient is experiencing signs and symptoms of atelectasis, including decreased lung sounds, dyspnea, cyanosis, crackles, restlessness, and apprehension. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

a. Maintain hydration, nutrition status, and aseptic technique
b. Position patient in semi-fowler, administer analgesics as ordered
c. Provide frequent oral hygiene and promote rest and comfort
d. Maintain bed rest, apply SCDs and administer anticoagulants, as ordered

Answer 1

The nurse should include interventions such as maintaining hydration, nutrition status, and aseptic technique, positioning the patient in semi-fowler and administering analgesics, and providing frequent oral hygiene and promoting rest and comfort in the plan of care for a postoperative patient experiencing signs and symptoms of atelectasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the following interventions in the plan of care for a postoperative patient experiencing signs and symptoms of atelectasis:

1. Maintain hydration, nutrition status, and aseptic technique: Ensuring that the patient remains well-hydrated and well-nourished can help prevent further complications. Aseptic technique should be followed to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Position the patient in semi-fowler and administer analgesics as ordered: Placing the patient in a semi-fowler position can help improve lung expansion and oxygenation. Administering analgesics can help manage pain, which can alleviate the patient's apprehension and restlessness.
3. Provide frequent oral hygiene and promote rest and comfort: Frequent oral hygiene can help prevent respiratory infections. Promoting rest and comfort can decrease the patient's restlessness and improve overall well-being.