A client had a mastectomy with reconstruction, and several axillary nodes were dissected. Which statement by the client indicates good understanding of discharge instructions?
a. "I must be careful not to injure the arm or hand on the side of my surgery."
b. "I'm glad that lymphedema is no longer a problem, as it was in my mother's day."
c. "I will have a hard time waiting for a whole year to see how my breast will look."
d. "I need to pull my drains out by inch each day until they are totally out."
A
Lymphedema is a complication following mastectomy, especially if lymph nodes have been re-moved. The client must use measures to prevent this from occurring for the rest of her life. Pre-venting injury is one way of preventing lymphedema. Breast reconstruction should look optimal in 3 to 6 months. The health care provider will remove drains at a postoperative appointment.
You might also like to view...
One of the best ways to prepare for a first-level management position is to
A) earn a college degree in management. B) attend seminars in management. C) earn certification in a clinical specialty. D) develop excellent clinical skills through job experience.
A 57-year-old woman with Paget disease is prescribed calcitonin, salmon to help regulate her calcium levels. The nurse will be sure to monitor which of the following?
A) Thyroid levels B) Sodium levels C) Serum alkaline phosphatase D) Daily fluid intake
Mr. Jones is a 40-year-old disabled man who lives alone since his wife died six months ago. Which factors would the nurse consider place Mr. Jones at risk for developing constipation?
a. his age c. that he is disabled b. that he lives alone d. that his wife died so recently
The nurse is providing home care instructions to a mother of a 9-year-old child diagnosed with viral conjunctivitis. Antibiotic eye drops are prescribed for the child. The nurse would instruct the mother that the child:
1. Can return to school immediately 2. Cannot return to school until seen by the physician in 1 week 3. Should be kept at home until the antibiotic eye drops have been administered for 1 week 4. Should be kept at home until the antibiotic eye drops have been administered for 24 hours