The Nurse Is Caring for a Postoperative Patient Who Is

question 18

Multiple Choice

The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient who is recovering from abdominal surgery. The nurse notes that the patient's breath sounds are clear but diminished, shallow, and slightly labored. The patient's pulse oximetry is 96% on room air. What is the priority action of the nurse?

• A) Administer a dose of the prescribed pain medication.
• B) Administer 2 L of oxygen via nasal cannula.
• C) Obtain an order from the physician for a chest x-ray.
• D) Ensure that the patient is using the spirometer 10 times every hour.

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Definitions:

Social Awkwardness

Discomfort or ineptitude in social situations, often marked by an inability to interact fluently or appropriately with others.

Personal Meaning

The individual significance or value attributed to experiences, objects, or concepts by a person.

Identity Process Theory

A psychological framework that explores how individuals adapt and maintain their sense of identity through processes of assimilation, accommodation, and evaluation in the face of changes or challenges.

Identity Schema

A cognitive framework consisting of all the ideas, concepts, and memories one has about oneself, guiding personal behavior and comprehension of social interactions.