The nurse is caring for a patient who has developed an increased temperature during the first 24 hours postoperatively. Which of these actions is a priority for the nurse to take?
a. Providing passive range of motion exercises
b. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing
c. Giving antipyretic medication
d. Restricting oral fluids
ANS: B
B. Usually, increased temperature during the first 24 hours postoperatively indicates atelectasis, if no other cause exists, so coughing and deep breathing should be encouraged to open the alveoli and prevent pneumonia. Option A will not affect the temperature. Option C does not affect the cause. D. Fluids should be encouraged as ordered, as dehydration can increase temperature as well.
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