After providing discharge teaching for the parents of a child who has undergone a cardiac catheterization, the nurse determines that additional teaching is necessary based on which statement by the parents?

Question

A) "We'll put on a new dressing tomorrow, covering it with plastic if it might get wet."
B) "If there is any redness or swelling at the site, we'll call the doctor right away."
C) "We can give him a tub bath tomorrow after we remove the pressure dressing."
D) "We need to call the doctor if his temperature is 100.4 degrees or higher."

Answer 1

C
Response:
After a cardiac catheterization, tub baths are avoided for approximately 3 days after the procedure. The pressure dressing is changed on the day after the procedure and a dry sterile dressing is applied; it should be covered with plastic if there is a chance of it becoming wet or soiled. Signs of infection such as redness, irritation, swelling, or drainage or evidence of bleeding should be reported to the physician immediately. A temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher also should be reported.