The nurse assesses a patient who had a total abdominal hysterectomy 2 days ago. Which information about the patient is most important to communicate to the health care provider?

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The calf pain,swelling,and warmth suggest that the patient has a venous thromboembolism (VTE). This will require the health care provider to order diagnostic tests,anticoagulants,or both and is most critical because a VTE could result in a pulmonary embolism. Because the stress response causes fluid retention for the first 2 to 5 days postoperatively,the difference between intake and output is expected. A temperature elevation to 100.3° F on the second postoperative day is suggestive of atelectasis and the nurse should have the patient deep breathe and cough. Pain with ambulation is normal,and the nurse should administer the ordered analgesic before patient activities.

The Nurse Assesses a Patient Who Had a Total Abdominal