Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What should be the priority intervention for a postoperative patient recovering from surgery for a lacerated spleen?

1. Monitoring the patient for signs of alcohol withdrawal

2. Encouraging early ambulation

3. Splinting the abdomen for coughing and deep-breathing

4. Monitoring the patient's renal function

The correct answer is: Monitoring the patient for signs of alcohol withdrawal

The priority intervention for a postoperative patient recovering from surgery for a lacerated spleen focuses on the immediate needs related to post-surgical care and potential complications associated with splenic injury and surgical intervention. Although monitoring for signs of alcohol withdrawal might be important in certain contexts, it is not directly relevant to the specific complications that can arise in the immediate postoperative period for this type of surgery. Early ambulation is crucial for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and it contributes to overall recovery. However, the most critical focus right after surgery for a lacerated spleen includes watching for signs of bleeding, infection, and the proper management of pain. In this scenario, splinting the abdomen during coughing and deep-breathing exercises is vital. It helps to provide support to the surgical site, minimizes pain, and encourages effective breathing patterns. This intervention reduces the risk of atelectasis and ensures that the abdominal muscles can function effectively during recovery, addressing respiratory complications which are common after abdominal surgery. Monitoring renal function, while important for the overall assessment of the patient, is typically not the immediate priority unless there are existing concerns regarding the patient's baseline kidney function or indications of complications affecting renal perfusion. Thus, prioritizing