A patient returned from a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for hiatal hernia 4 hours ago. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to address immediately?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decreased breath sounds on one side may indicate a pneumothorax,which requires rapid diagnosis and treatment. The nausea and abdominal pain should also be addressed,but they are not as high priority as the patient's respiratory status. The patient's decreased bowel sounds are expected after surgery and require ongoing monitoring but no other action.

A Patient Returned from a Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication for Hiatal