The nurse is prioritizing care for two postoperative abdominal surgery

The nurse is prioritizing care for two postoperative abdominal surgery clients; the first is 15 hours postoperative and the second is ready for discharge. Which of the interventions should be ac-complished first?

1. Discharge pain control
2. First day dangling and ambulation
3. First day post op coughing and deep breathing
4. Discharge teaching regarding the dressing change

ANSWER

ANS: 3
The first client’s goals center on restoring physiological function impaired as a result of the stress of surgery. The second client’s goals center on adequate preparation to assume self-care at home. Physiological interventions, particularly those affecting breathing, should receive priority. Dan-gling and ambulation may be addressed after the second client is readied for discharge.