The patient will have an incision in the lower left abdomen.Which of the following measures by the nurse will help decrease discomfort in the incisional area when the patient coughs postoperatively?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Applying a splint directly over the lower abdomen will help decrease discomfort in the incisional area when the patient coughs postoperatively. This provides support and stability to the area and reduces tension on the incision. Keeping the patient flat with feet flexed may help decrease strain on the incision, but may also increase discomfort due to pressure on the incisional area. Turning the patient onto the right side or applying pressure above and below the incision will not directly address the discomfort associated with coughing.

The Patient Will Have an Incision in the Lower Left