The nurse is caring for a patient who is admitted to the ER with the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The nurse notes during the assessment that the patient's ribs and xiphoid process are prominent
The patient states she exercises two to three times daily and her mother indicates that she is being treated for anorexia nervosa. How should the nurse best follow up these assessment data?
A) Inform the postoperative team about the patient's risk for wound dehiscence.
B) Evaluate the patient's ability to manage her pain level.
C) Facilitate a detailed analysis of the patient's electrolyte levels.
D) Instruct the patient on the need for a high-sodium diet to promote healing.
Ans: C
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. 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 her psychiatric specialist. Evaluation of pain management is always important, but not particularly significant in this scenario.
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