The nurse is caring for a patient in the postoperative unit following carotid endarterectomy and positions the patient on the

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A patient who has undergone carotid endarterectomy should be positioned on the unoperated side to decrease the risk of injuring the operative site. The head of the bed should be elevated 30 degrees or in a flat position to prevent jugular vein compression and maintain adequate cerebral perfusion. Placing a small towel directly against the operative site or using a pressure dressing over the operative site can increase the risk of bleeding or dislodging the surgical site. Placing the patient on the operated side can also increase the risk of bleeding or injury to the surgical site.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient in the Postoperative