The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Had a Mastectomy

The nurse is caring for a patient who had a mastectomy for breast cancer 2 days ago and is now developing pulmonary congestion.Why is a mastectomy patient at risk for pulmonary complications?

A) Breast cancer has often spread to the lungs before diagnosis.
B) Pathogens may have been introduced during the surgical procedure.
C) The chest incision makes the patient hesitant to deep breathe and cough.
D) Mastectomy patients must remain on bedrest for 48 to 72 hours postoperatively.