A 6-year-old child returned to the surgical floor 20 hours ago after an appendectomy for a gangrenous appendix. His mother tells the nurse that he is becoming more restless and is anxious…

Question

Options

• AAllowing the child to remain in the position of comfort, preferably semi-or high-Fowler position
• BAdministering analgesics as ordered
• CHaving the child turn, cough, and deep breathe every 1-2 hours
• DRemaining with the child and keeping as calm and quiet as possible

• A
  6% (2)
• B
  3% (1)
• C
  91% (30)

Explanation

(A) Allowing the client to remain in the position of comfort will not resolve the atelectasis. This position, if left unchanged, over time may actually increase the atelectasis. (B) Analgesics will not resolve the atelectasis and may contribute to it if proper nursing actions are not taken to help resolve the atelectasis. (C) Having the client turn, cough, and deep breathe every 1-2 hours will aid in resolving the atelectasis. Surgery clients are at risk for postoperative respiratory complications because pulmonary function is reduced as a result of anesthesia and surgery. (D) Remaining with the client and keeping him calm and quiet will not affect the client's anxiety, restlessness, or help to resolve the atelectasis. The cause (atelectasis) needs to be treated, not the symptoms (anxiety and restlessness).

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