The nurse instructs the patient about postoperative coughing and deep-breathing exercises following abdominal surgery.Which technique should the nurse use to engage the patient in prevention of pneumonia and atelectasis?

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The nurse engages the patient in postoperative coughing and deep breathing by instructing him or her to splint the incision similar to when the patient is turning.By holding the incision,the patient stabilizes the edges of the wound and puts less stress on the incision.The nurse does not allow the patient to decide when and if coughing and deep breathing are done.He or she involves the patient actively.Simply taking a deep breath and holding it before exhaling does not clear secretions from the respiratory tract.As soon as the patient begins waking,he or she will be coached by the nurse to cough and deep breathe.Pain medication will help the exercises to be less painful.

The Nurse Instructs the Patient About Postoperative Coughing and Deep-Breathing