What is an important nursing intervention after surgery for a malignant melanoma?
A) Alert the caregiver to signs of these complications and how and when to report changes in status.
B) Use cool compresses or ice packs to relieve pain.
C) Provide soft or liquid diet that is high in protein to assist with healing.
D) Anticipate the need for and administer appropriate analgesic medications.
Ans: D
Feedback: Nursing interventions after surgery for a malignant melanoma center on promoting comfort, because wide excision surgery may be necessary. A split-thickness or full-thickness skin graft may be necessary when large defects are created by surgical removal of a melanoma. Anticipating the need for and administering appropriate analgesic medications are important. Option A would only be important if this surgery was done on an outpatient basis. Options B and C are interventions used in cosmetic procedures on the face.
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