Editing Medical-Surgical Nursing – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Postoperative and Wound Care ==

;Most common cause of fever in the first 48 hours after surgery and the response
:Atelectasis. The response is deep breathing, coughing, incentive spirometry, position changes, and early ambulation, and the finding is reported.

;Timing that suggests a wound infection
:Fever with increasing pain, redness, swelling, and purulent drainage, typically appearing on about the third to fifth day after surgery. Report promptly.

;Dehiscence, evisceration, and the first action to take
:Dehiscence is separation of the wound layers, and evisceration is protrusion of internal organs through the opening. Evisceration is an emergency. Cover the organs with sterile gauze moistened with sterile normal saline, keep the patient nothing by mouth, place the patient in low Fowler position with knees slightly bent, stay with the patient, and get help immediately. Never push the organs back in.

;Signs of a blood clot in the leg that must be reported
:Swelling in one calf or thigh, warmth, redness, and tenderness. Do not rub or massage the leg, and report it right away.

;Simple measures that prevent blood clots after surgery
:Early and frequent ambulation, ankle pumps and leg exercises, adequate fluids, applying compression devices or stockings as ordered, and avoiding pillows placed under the knees.