Which of the following findings in a client with a hiatal hernia who returned from a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication 4 hours ago is most important for the nurse to address immediately?
A)The client is experiencing intermittent waves of nausea.
B)The client has absent breath sounds throughout the left lung.
C)The client has decreased bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
D)The client complains of 6/10 (0-10 scale) abdominal pain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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

Which of the Following Findings in a Client with a Hiatal