Pre and Post-Operative Nursing Care

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus regarding the causes of obesity?

The consumption of high-sugar foods

Calories in being greater than calories out (correct)

The role of genetics in weight gain

Lack of physical activity

Which of the following is NOT a typical trigger for asthma?

Cold air

Regular exercise (correct)

Pollen and dust

Smoke and pollutants

What is the primary goal of asthma treatment?

Completely eliminate all symptoms

Reduce impairment and risk of exacerbation (correct)

Increase physical activity levels

Focus solely on medication adherence

What is one of the big complications of a fracture that nurses should monitor for?

Compartment syndrome Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is typically used to treat high blood glucose levels in Type 2 diabetes by decreasing insulin resistance?

Metformin Signup and view all the answers

Which surgical option involves restricting food intake by inserting an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach?

Gastric banding Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a symptom associated with late signs of compartment syndrome?

Pallor Signup and view all the answers

Which phase does an asthma attack primarily affect during its progression?

Constriction of the airways Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of a decubitus ulcer is characterized by full-thickness tissue loss, exposing muscle or bone?

Stage 4 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of Virchow's triad related to venous thrombosis?

Endothelial/vascular wall damage Signup and view all the answers

What is a common assessment for asthma exacerbation?

Peak flow measurement Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the BRADEN scale in nursing management?

To evaluate the risk of pressure ulcers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications helps stimulate insulin release for managing Type 2 diabetes?

Glipizide Signup and view all the answers

What is a common early symptom of compartment syndrome to monitor in areas distal to the fracture site?

Unbearable pain Signup and view all the answers

What is the nursing priority when managing a patient with a risk of decubitus ulcers?

Frequent position changes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is NOT commonly associated with the risk of obesity?

High levels of physical activity Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by upper urinary tract symptoms and can arise from an untreated lower UTI?

Pyelonephritis Signup and view all the answers

What are the late signs of hypoglycemia?

Loss of consciousness Signup and view all the answers

What is a common risk factor for developing peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?

Chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended treatment for a patient with a blood glucose level below 50 who cannot eat or drink?

D50 25g Signup and view all the answers

In managing hypertension, which factor does NOT typically affect its development?

Environmental temperature Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with the complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Chest pain Signup and view all the answers

Which insulin types are categorized as basal insulin?

NPH and glargine Signup and view all the answers

What is the best nursing management for a patient diagnosed with pyelonephritis?

Increase fluid intake Signup and view all the answers

If a patient's blood glucose is between 50 - 70 and they can eat, what is the best immediate treatment option?

8 oz milk Signup and view all the answers

Which type of peptic ulcer is more commonly diagnosed?

Duodenal ulcer Signup and view all the answers

What is the combined unit administration for correctional and nutritional insulin?

Correctional units and nutritional units added together Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a clinical manifestation of hypertension?

Frequent headaches Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding hypoglycemia treatment when a patient has IV access?

D50 12.5g is appropriate for glucose levels 50 - 70 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about hypoglycemia is correct?

Treatments should be monitored after 15 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential nursing intervention for managing lower UTIs?

Encourage frequent urination Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated for a patient who cannot eat or drink and has low blood glucose levels when they do not have IV access?

Glucagon 1mg IM injection Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Esophageal stricture Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary risk factor that can contribute to the development of peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?

Chronic stress Signup and view all the answers

Which type of peptic ulcer is more prevalent among the general population?

Duodenal Signup and view all the answers

What is a clinical manifestation indicative of pyelonephritis?

Fever and chills Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT associated with hypertension (HTN)?

Frequent exercise Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential aspect of nursing management for patients experiencing lower urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Encouraging regular voiding Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms would most likely indicate a progression from lower UTI to upper UTI?

Flank pain Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing assessment is crucial for monitoring patients with renal calculi?

Monitoring fluid intake and output Signup and view all the answers

What should be administered to a patient with a blood glucose level below 50 who cannot eat or drink and has IV access?

D50 25g Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is appropriate for a patient with blood glucose levels between 50-70 who can consume food?

4 oz juice or non-diet soda Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a significant concern for a nurse monitoring a patient post-surgery?

Complications such as infection Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the administration of correctional and nutritional insulin?

They are given together right after the meal. Signup and view all the answers

What treatment is recommended for a patient with blood glucose between 50-70 who cannot consume foods or liquids?

Glucagon 1mg IM injection Signup and view all the answers

What is a key risk factor associated with the development of compartment syndrome?

Fractures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes the management of hypoglycemia in a medical emergency?

Late signs are neurological symptoms Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of decubitus ulcer is characterized by non-blanchable redness of intact skin?

Stage 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checking blood glucose levels 15 minutes after hypoglycemia treatment?

To determine if additional treatment is necessary Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the classical manifestations of venous thrombosis?

Edema Signup and view all the answers

What is the best immediate option for a patient with hypoglycemia whose blood glucose level is between 50-70 and is able to drink?

8 oz juice Signup and view all the answers

Which option best describes an intervention to prevent venous thrombosis?

Regular ambulation Signup and view all the answers

What complication must nurses monitor for in patients with fractures?

Compartment syndrome Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors contributes to obesity?

Genetics Signup and view all the answers

In the BRADEN scale, which aspect does NOT evaluate the risk of pressure ulcers?

Age of the patient Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus in understanding the causes of obesity?

Calories consumed must be greater than calories expended. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding gastric banding as a treatment for obesity?

It facilitates weight loss by restricting food intake. Signup and view all the answers

During an asthma attack, which physiological change primarily occurs in the airways?

Bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common component of an asthma action plan?

Identify personal asthma triggers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Metformin in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes?

It decreases insulin resistance and lowers blood glucose levels. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a symptom associated with asthma exacerbation?

Wheezing and shortness of breath. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Type 1 diabetes from Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes involves an autoimmune response destroying insulin-producing cells. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is typically a trigger for asthma episodes?

Cold air and respiratory infections. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pre and Post-Op Care

Obtaining consent is crucial. Nurses must witness patient consent before surgery. Patients should be given a clear explanation of the procedure beforehand.
Health history information, allergies, baseline vital signs, and mental status all need to be assessed before surgery.
Preoperative teaching involves explaining the surgery, post-operative care (what to expect after surgery, going to the PACU), managing pain levels, and using an incentive spirometer. Patients should be educated on their allergies and the procedure.
NPO (nothing by mouth) status helps prevent aspiration during surgery.
A head-to-toe assessment evaluates baseline mental status and vital signs (looking for hypertension, arrhythmias, and edema). Assess chronic respiratory conditions, skin conditions, mobility status, and chronic conditions.

Post-op Nursing Care

Nursing staff needs to monitor patients carefully. Assess respiratory status if the patient has trouble waking up. If the patient is waking up disoriented, check for hypoxia.
Respiratory issues, like hypoventilation and ineffective oxygenation, are potential post-operative complications.
Monitor for complications. Assess a patient's baseline mental status, vital signs and respiratory status, and assess the surgical site for infections, monitoring WBC count, assessing dressing, and assessing for signs of dehiscence (disruption of previously joined wound edges).
Encourage the use of incentive spirometers to prevent respiratory complications. Deep breathing helps to manage pain.

Infection

Surgical incisions have a higher risk. Monitor for pain.
Assess the surgical site by checking the dressing, paying attention to drainage or a foul odor.
Watch for fever, chills, and increased WBC count.

Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is a potentially serious complication. It's a condition where swelling and pressure build inside a confined area.
Early symptoms might include pain, decreased sensation or decreased blood flow, pallor, and the 6 Ps (pain, pressure, paresthesia (tingling), pallor, paralysis, pulselessness).
Proper nursing care prevents pressure buildup. These measures can include splitting and monitoring casts, and avoiding unnecessary pressure on the extremities.

Pressure Ulcers (Decubitus Ulcers/ Bedsores)

Decubitus ulcers are localized injuries to skin and underlying tissue.
They're usually over bony prominences and often linked to immobility, prolonged pressure, shearing, and moisture.
Assess for redness, warmth, tenderness, and/or discharge that might indicate the presence of a pressure ulcer. Monitor for fever and increased WBC as signs of infection.

Fractures

Fractures are breaks/ disruptions in the continuity of a bone.
Older females, trauma, and cancerous conditions are risk factors.
Look for swelling, pain, tenderness, deformity, and ecchymosis (bruising).
Assessment includes monitoring peripheral vascular status, checking pulses, maintaining alignment, and monitoring for bleeding and drainage.

Venous Thrombosis (VT)/ Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

VT/ DVT forms when a blood clot develops within a deep vein.
This can happen if patients are immobile for a long time, have a history of prolonged bedrest, or have certain medical conditions (e.g., cancer).
Risk factors include recent surgery, prolonged immobility, and blood clotting disorders.
Early recognition and intervention are key prevention. Use of sequential compression devices and/ or anticoagulants to prevent complications.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease. Inflammation and narrowing of the airways are common causes. Airway remodeling is a structural change in the respiratory system.
Common signs and symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Teach patients how to use inhalers. Patients should maintain a daily maintenance dose of inhaled corticosteroids. Encourage daily use of inhalers.
Assess a patient's respiratory status using appropriate vital signs and listening to lung sounds.

Obesity

Excess body weight beyond physical requirements.
Causes can be from genetics, lifestyle, or environmental factors.
Obesity can lead to several serious health problems, leading to diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke- and other conditions.
Weight loss should be carefully planned by a medical professional and a balanced, healthy lifestyle with both exercise and adequate nutrition.

Diabetes

Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that impacts carbohydrate metabolism.
Type 1 Diabetes involves the body's immune system attacking beta cells in the pancreas, leading to insulin production deficiency.
Type 2 Diabetes involves insulin resistance, meaning the body's cells do not respond effectively to the hormone.
Monitor blood glucose levels consistently. Treatment includes monitoring blood glucose levels and providing appropriate medications (e.g., Metformin).

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose level falls below 50 mg/dL.
Signs include shakiness, and dizziness to seizures, loss of consciousness and death.
Treatment can involve oral glucose, juices, or IV infusions, according to the severity of the situation.

Hypertension

High blood pressure (HTN) also known as hypertension.
Stage 1 HTN (systolic 130-139 mmHg, diastolic 80-89 mmHg), Stage 2 HTN (systolic ≥140 mmHg, diastolic ≥90 mm Hg).
Nursing staff should monitor blood pressure routinely in both the primary and secondary healthcare settings.
A DASH diet (dietary approaches to stop HTN), limiting sodium intake, and increasing physical activity are crucial prevention strategies.

Cancer

Cancer occurs when cells grow and divide at abnormal rates.
Risk factors include exposure to carcinogens, genetics, obesity, smoking, and immune status.
Early detection and treatment are essential. Avoid contact with possible carcinogens.
Assess for suspicious lesions.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus.
Signs include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.
Nursing management includes promoting good posture, avoiding tight clothing, and maintaining good nutrition.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, usually caused by obstruction.
Clinical manifestations may include periumbilical pain that spreads to the right lower quadrant, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
A surgical removal of the appendix is usually necessary.

Lower and Upper UTIs

Urine infections can be classified as lower UTIs and upper UTIs, with upper UTIs being potentially more serious.
Upper UTIs are inflammations of kidneys.
Symptoms for UTIs often include frequency, urgency, and pain during urination; fever might be present.
Treatment involves antibiotics, adequate hydration, and sometimes addressing possible underlying issues like urinary retention.
Clinical manifestations and symptoms vary by type.

Renal Calculi (Kidney Stones)

Kidney stones are mineral deposits that form in the kidneys, usually made of calcium oxalate or uric acid.
Risk factors include genetics, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain conditions like diabetes.
Stones can vary in pain from mild to excruciating.
Management involves increasing fluid intake, pain control, and potentially surgical intervention (lithotripsy) or medications if stones do not pass naturally.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers essential aspects of pre and post-operative nursing care. Topics include obtaining patient consent, conducting health assessments, and providing post-operative education. Test your knowledge on best practices for ensuring patient safety before and after surgery.