The nurse is encouraging a reluctant postoperative patient to deep breathe and cough. Which explanation can the nurse provide that may encourage the patient to comply?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Deep breathing and coughing expel retained anesthetic gases and facilitate a patient's return to consciousness. Although it is correct that a patient may experience atelectasis and pneumonia if deep breathing and coughing are not performed, the way this is worded sounds threatening and could be communicated in a more therapeutic manner. Deep breathing and coughing are encouraged every 2 hours while the patient is awake. Just clearing the throat does not remove mucus from deeper airways.

The Nurse Is Encouraging a Reluctant Postoperative Patient to Deep