The nurse is assisting a postoperative patient in using an incentive spirometer. Which postoperative complication is the nurse attempting to avoid?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse is attempting to avoid atelectasis, which is a common postoperative complication characterized by the collapse of lung tissue due to lack of air flow. Using an incentive spirometer helps the patient take deep breaths and expand their lungs, preventing atelectasis. Deep vein thrombosis (B), hemorrhage (C), and pulmonary embolism (D) are not specifically related to the use of an incentive spirometer.

The Nurse Is Assisting a Postoperative Patient in Using an Incentive