The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient with an abdominal incision. A pillow is used during coughing to provide

a. Pain relief.
b. Splinting.
c. Distraction.
d. Anxiety reduction.


B
Surgical incisions cut through muscles, tissues, and nerve endings. Deep breathing and coughing exercises place additional stress on the suture line and cause discomfort. Splinting incisions with hands and a pillow provides firm support and reduces incisional pull. Providing a pillow during coughing does not provide distraction or reduce anxiety. Providing a pillow does not provide pain relief. Coughing can increase anxiety because it can cause pain.

Nursing

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Nursing