A patient is admitted to the emergency room with the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The nurse notes during the assessment that the patient's ribs and xyphoid process are prominent. The patient states she exercises daily
The patient's mother indicates she is being treated for anorexia nervosa. The nurse should:
A) Inform the postoperative nurse of the patient's risk for wound dehiscence.
B) Evaluate the patient's ability to manage her pain level.
C) Inform the surgical team and determine her electrolyte levels.
D) Instruct the patient on the need for proper nutrition to promote healing.
Ans: C
Chapter: 18
Cognitive Level: Application
Difficulty: Difficult
Integrated Process: Nursing Process
Objective: 2
Patient Needs: B-2
Feedback: The surgical team should be informed about the patient's medical history regarding anorexia nervosa. Any nutritional deficiency, such as malnutrition, should be corrected before surgery to provide adequate protein for tissue repair. In the event of a surgical emergency, the electrolyte levels should be evaluated and corrected to prevent metabolic abnormalities in the operative and postoperative phase. The risk of wound dehiscence is more likely associated with obesity. Instruction on proper nutrition should take place in the postoperative period, and a consultation should be made with the patient's psychiatric specialist. Evaluation of pain management is always important but not significant in this scenario.
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