The nurse is caring for Mrs. Guzman, a 47-year-old Filipina broker, on the 3rd postoperative day after coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgery. Because an important nursing diagnosis for post-CABG clients is ineffective breathing pattern, what is the best plan by the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Incentive spirometry and deep breathing are the preferred techniques for lung expansion with these clients. Vigorous coughing is discouraged for post-CABG clients because it may increase intrathoracic pressure and cause instability in the sterna area (Choice A). Premedication before ambulation (Choice C) will facilitate activity intolerance, not effective breathing pattern; auscultating lungs (Choice D) will detect adventitious lung sounds resulting from the ineffective breathing pattern, but it is not an action to encourage effective breathing pattern

The Nurse Is Caring for Mrs