The female client on the surgical unit is being prepared for abdominal

The female client on the surgical unit is being prepared for abdominal surgery with general anes-thesia. In preparing this client for surgery, the nurse should:

1. Leave all of her jewelry intact
2. Provide her with sips of water for a dry mouth
3. Remove her makeup and nail polish
4. Remove her hearing aid before transport to the operating room

ANSWER

ANS: 3
All makeup, including nail polish, should be removed to expose normal skin and nail color to de-termine the client’s level of oxygenation and circulation during and after surgery. Jewelry and other valuables should be given to family members or secured for safekeeping. A wedding band can be taped in place unless there is a risk that the client will experience swelling of the hand or fingers. For safety, metal items, such as for pierced areas, should be removed. The client should be allowed nothing by mouth (NPO) before surgery to prevent vomiting and aspiration with gen-eral anesthesia. Clients may be allowed to keep personal items such as a hearing aid until they reach the preoperative area.