A client who is on postoperative day 1 after abdominal surgery is requ

A client who is on postoperative day 1 after abdominal surgery is requesting a back rub. The nurse realizes this care should be provided by

1. the registered nurse.
2. unlicensed assistive personnel.
3. no one, because the client cannot assume the prone position.
4. the physician.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Because the client is on day 1 in recovery from abdominal surgery, the client’s condition might not be stable enough to have unlicensed assistive personnel perform the skill.
Rationale 2: Although unlicensed assistive personnel might be able to perform the skill, the client’s condition might warrant that the nurse provide the back rub.
Rationale 3: The client can assume a side-lying position for the back rub.
Rationale 4: The nurse can provide the back rub. The physician does not need to be contacted to do this.