Chapter 050

Potter & Perry: Fundamentals of Nursing, 7th Edition
Test Bank
Chapter 50: Care of Surgical Clients
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A 43-year-old client is scheduled to have a gastrectomy. Which of the following is a
major preoperative concern?
1. The clients brother had a tonsillectomy at age 11.
2. The client smokes a pack of cigarettes a day.
3. The client has an intravenous (IV) infusion.
4. The client has a history of employment as a computer programmer.
ANS: 2
The client who smokes is at greater risk for postoperative pulmonary complications than
a client who does not. An IV should be in place for surgery so access is available to
administer medications, fluids, or blood products if necessary. Keeping the client well
hydrated will help prevent postoperative thrombophlebitis.
DIF: A
REF: 1373
OBJ: Comprehension
TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
MSC: NCLEX test plan designation: Reduction of Risk Potential/Monitoring
Conscious Sedation/Potential for Complications From Surgical Procedures and Health
Alterations
2. An appendectomy is appropriately documented by the nurse as:
1. Diagnostic surgery
2. Palliative surgery
3. Ablative surgery
4. Reconstructive surgery
ANS: 3
Ablative surgery is the excision or removal of a diseased body part, such as an
appendectomy. Diagnostic surgery is surgical exploration that allows the health care
provider to confirm a diagnosis. This type of surgery may involve removal of tissue for
further diagnostic testing. An example would be a breast mass biopsy. Palliative surgery
relieves or reduces the intensity of disease symptoms. It will not produce a cure. An
example is resection of nerve roots. Reconstructive surgery restores function or
appearance to traumatized or malfunctioning tissues. An example is internal fixation of a
hip fracture.
DIF: A
REF: 1367
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
Mosby items and derived items 2009, 2005 by Mosby, Inc., an affiliate of Elsevier Inc.
Test Bank
50-2
3. An obese client is admitted for abdominal surgery. The nurse recognizes that this client is
more susceptible to the postoperative complication of:
1. Anemia
2. Seizures
3. Protein loss
4. Dehiscence
ANS: 4
An obese client is susceptible to poor wound healing and wound infection because of the
structure of fatty tissue, which contains a poor blood supply. This increases the risk for
dehiscence. A client who is malnourished is more susceptible to being anemic. A client
with liver disease may have altered protein metabolism.
DIF: C
REF: 1372
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
4. The nurse is working in a postoperative care unit in an ambulatory surgery center. Of the
following clients that have come to have surgery, the client at the greatest risk during
surgery is a:
1. 78-year-old taking an analgesic agent
2. 43-year-old taking an antihypertensive agent
3. 27-year-old taking an anticoagulant agent
4. 10-year-old taking an antibiotic agent
ANS: 3
Anticoagulants alter normal clotting factors and thus increase the risk for hemorrhaging
during surgery. Aminoglycosides (a type of antibiotic) may cause mild respiratory
depression from depressed neuromuscular transmission; however, the client who has been
taking anticoagulants is at greater risk during surgery.
DIF: C
REF: 1373
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
5. A 92-year-old client is scheduled for a colectomy. Which normal physiological change
that accompanies the aging process increases this clients risk for surgery?
1. An increased tactile sensation
2. An increased metabolic rate
3. A relaxation of arterial walls
4. Reduced glomerular filtration rate
ANS: 4
Test Bank
50-3
An older adult is likely to have a reduced glomerular filtration rate. This limits the bodys
ability to eliminate drugs or toxic substances. An older adult has reduced tactile sense,
which decreases the clients ability to respond to early warning signs of surgical
complications, including sensing pressure over bony prominences. An older adult has a
lower basal metabolic rate, reducing total oxygen consumption. The nurse should ensure
the client obtains adequate nutritional intake when diet is resumed, but the client should
avoid intake of excess calories.
DIF: A
REF: 1369
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
6. The nurse is completing the preoperative checklist for an adult female client who is
scheduled for an operative procedure later in the morning. Which of the following
preoperative assessment findings for this client indicates a need to contact the surgeon?
1. Hemoglobin (Hgb) 14 g/100 mL
2. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 15 mg/100 mL
3. Platelets 300,000/mm3
4. Serum creatinine 3.2 mg/100 mL
ANS: 4
The normal serum creatinine in women is 0.5 to 1.1 mg/100 mL. A serum creatinine of
3.2 mg/100 mL should be reported to the health care provider, because it can be an
indication of renal failure. A Hgb of 14 g/100 mL is within the normal limits of 12 to 16
g/100 mL for women. A BUN of 15 mg/100 mL is within the normal limits of 10 to 20
mg/100 mL. A platelet count of 300,000/mm3 is within the normal limits of 150,000 to
400,000/mm3.
DIF: C
REF: 1376
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
7. The nurse is evaluating the outcome Client describes surgical procedures and
postoperative treatment and determines that the client has not achieved this outcome.
The nurse should:
1. Obtain the consent, because this is expected with preoperative anxiety
2. Teach the client all about the procedure
3. Ask the unit manager to assist with a teaching plan
4. Inform the surgeon so that information can be provided
ANS: 4
Test Bank
50-4
When the client has little or no understanding about the surgery, the health care provider
will need to be notified to reinform the client. If the client does not understand the
surgical procedure, the client would not be giving informed consent. It is the surgeons
responsibility to explain the procedure and obtain the informed consent. The nurse can
augment the health care providers explanations, but it is the health care providers
responsibility to teach the client about the procedure. This teaching includes the need for
the procedure, steps involved, risks, expected results, and alternative treatments.
DIF: A
REF: 1378
OBJ: Comprehension
TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Alterations
8. Which of the following statements most accurately reflects nursing accountability in the
intraoperative phase?
1. I would like to see the client have a regional anesthetic rather than a general
anesthetic.
2. There seems to be a missing sponge, so a recount should be done of all the
sponges that have been removed.
3. Did the client receive the medications and sign the consent?
4. The client looks to be reactive and stable.
ANS: 2
The scrub nurse counts the sponges and instruments, and the circulating nurse verifies the
counts. This statement by the nurse reflects accountability in the intraoperative phase.
DIF: C
REF: 1390-1391
OBJ: Analysis
TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
Alterations
9. The client 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 client
coughs postoperatively?
1. Applying a splint directly over the lower abdomen
2. Keeping the client flat with her feet flexed
3. Turning the client onto the right side
4. Applying pressure above and below the incision
ANS: 1
Test Bank
50-5
Deep-breathing and coughing exercises place additional stress on the suture line and
cause discomfort. Splinting the incision with hands or a pillow provides firm support and
reduces incisional pulling. Keeping the client flat will not decrease discomfort in the
incisional area when the client coughs. Having the knees bent slightly will aid in relaxing
the abdominal muscles, causing less discomfort. Turning the client onto the right side will
not decrease discomfort in the incisional area when the client coughs. The client should
turn from side to side at least every 2 hours and may splint the incision to decrease
discomfort when doing so. Splinting should be done directly over the incision to provide
firm support and reduce incisional pulling as the client coughs postoperatively.
DIF: A
REF: 1400-1401
OBJ: Comprehension
TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
Alterations
10. The nurse is evaluating the client in the hospitals postanesthesia care unit (PACU) and
determines that the Aldrete score is 8. Based on this assessment, the nurse anticipates that
the client will:
1. Be sent to the intensive care unit
2. Be discharged back to his or her room on the nursing unit
3. Remain in the PACU until the score improves
4. Return to the operating room for surgical evaluation
ANS: 2
The client must receive a composite Aldrete score of 8 to 10 before being discharged
from the PACU. The nurse may anticipate that the client with an Aldrete score of 8 will
be discharged back to his or her room on the nursing unit. If the clients condition is still
poor 2 to 3 hours after surgery (an Aldrete score below 8), the health care provider may
transfer the client to an intensive care unit. If the clients condition is still poor 2 to 3
hours after surgery (an Aldrete score below 8), the health care provider may lengthen the
clients stay in the PACU until the score improves. A client with an Aldrete score of 8 is
unlikely to return to the operating room for surgical evaluation.
DIF: A
REF: 1394
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
11. A client is in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) recovering from a vagotomy and
pyloroplasty. Which of the following is a normal expectation of the client in this stage of
recovery?
1. Returned normal bowel sounds on auscultation
2. Pain that is relieved with noninvasive comfort measures
3. Voluntary bladder control and function
4. A subdued level of consciousness and neurological function
Test Bank
50-6
ANS: 4
In the PACU the client is often drowsy. The effects of anesthetic agents subdue the
clients level of consciousness and neurological function. Normally during the immediate
recovery phase in the PACU, faint or absent bowel sounds are auscultated in all four
quadrants. Clients who have had abdominal surgery may develop paralytic ileus, with a
return of bowel sounds 24 to 48 hours later. The acute incisional pain experienced in this
stage of recovery is usually not relieved with noninvasive comfort measures but will
require pharmacological measures of pain relief. Depending on the surgery, a client may
not regain voluntary control over urinary function for 6 to 8 hours after anesthesia.
DIF: A
REF: 1397
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
12. The client is scheduled for abdominal surgery and has just received the preoperative
medications. The nurse should:
1. Keep the client quiet
2. Obtain the consent
3. Prepare the skin at the surgical site
4. Place the side rails up on the bed or stretcher
ANS: 4
After administering preoperative medications, the nurse should raise the side rails on the
bed or stretcher and keep the bed or stretcher in low position. Preanesthetic medications
will help reduce the clients anxiety. Consent must be obtained before preoperative
medications are administered or the consent is invalid. Preparing the skin at the surgical
site is often done in the operating room.
DIF: A
REF: 1391
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
13. The nurse is completing the preoperative checklist for an adult client who is scheduled
for an operative procedure later in the morning. Which of the following preoperative
assessment findings for this client indicates a need to contact the anesthesiologist?
1. Temperature is 100 F.
2. Pulse is 90 beats per minute.
3. Respiratory rate is 20 breaths per minute.
4. Blood pressure is 130/74 mm Hg.
ANS: 1
Test Bank
50-7
An elevated temperature before surgery is a cause for concern. If the client has an
underlying infection, the surgeon may choose to postpone surgery until the infection has
been treated. An elevated body temperature increases the risk for fluid and electrolyte
imbalance after surgery. Anxiety and fear commonly cause elevations in heart rate and
blood pressure. A pulse rate of 90 beats per minute is not a concern. A respiratory rate of
20 breaths per minute is normal for an adult. A blood pressure of 130/74 mm Hg is not
excessively elevated.
DIF: A
REF: 1388
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
14. In the postoperative period, the nurse recognizes that an early sign of malignant
hyperthermia is:
1. Fever
2. Tachycardia
3. Muscle relaxation
4. Skin pallor
ANS: 2
Malignant hyperthermia should be suspected when there is unexpected tachycardia and
tachypnea; jaw muscle rigidity; body rigidity of limbs, abdomen, and chest; or
hyperkalemia. Temperature elevation is a late sign of malignant hyperthermia. Muscle
rigidity, not relaxation, is an early sign of malignant hyperthermia. Skin pallor is not an
early sign of malignant hyperthermia. Skin pallor may be seen in the immediate
postoperative period, because the body is cool.
DIF: A
REF: 1397
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
15. The client tells the nurse that blowing into this tube thing (incentive spirometer) is a
ridiculous waste of time. The nurse explains that the specific purpose of the therapy is
to:
1. Directly remove excess secretions from the lungs
2. Increase pulmonary circulation
3. Promote lung expansion
4. Stimulate the cough reflex
ANS: 3
Test Bank
50-8
The primary purpose of using an incentive spirometer is to promote lung expansion.

Coughing exercises are used to remove excess secretions from the lungs. Ambulation
helps increase pulmonary circulation as the respiratory rate increases. The primary
purpose of incentive spirometry is not to stimulate the cough reflex, but to promote lung
expansion.
DIF: A
REF: 1401
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
16. The female client on the surgical unit is being prepared for abdominal surgery with
general anesthesia. In preparing this client for surgery, the nurse should:
1. Leave all of her jewelry intact
2. Provide her with sips of water for a dry mouth
3. Remove her makeup and nail polish
4. Remove her hearing aid before transport to the operating room
ANS: 3
All makeup, including nail polish, should be removed to expose normal skin and nail
color to determine the clients level of oxygenation and circulation during and after
surgery. Jewelry and other valuables should be given to family members or secured for
safekeeping. A wedding band can be taped in place unless there is a risk that the client
will experience swelling of the hand or fingers. For safety, metal items, such as for
pierced areas, should be removed. The client should be allowed nothing by mouth (NPO)
before surgery to prevent vomiting and aspiration with general anesthesia. Clients may be
allowed to keep personal items such as a hearing aid until they reach the preoperative
area.
DIF: A
REF: 1387
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
17. The client asks the nurse the purpose of having medications (Demerol and Vistaril) given
before surgery. The nurse should inform the client that these particular medications:
1. Reduce preoperative fear
2. Promote emptying of the stomach
3. Reduce body secretions
4. Ease the induction of the anesthesia
ANS: 4
Test Bank
50-9
Preoperative medications such as Demerol and Vistaril help reduce the clients anxiety,
the amount of general anesthesia required, the risk for nausea and vomiting and resulting
aspiration, and the amount of respiratory secretions. They may also help the client feel
drowsy and lessen his or her anxiety associated with fear. Vistaril (hydroxyzine pamoate)
is often given to control nausea and vomiting by suppressing the central nervous system
(CNS). Vistaril will have an anticholinergic effect, reducing body secretions. These
medications given together will ease the induction of anesthesia.
DIF: A
REF: 1392
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
18. A client who receives general or regional anesthesia in an ambulatory surgery center:
1. Has to meet identified criteria in order to be discharged home
2. Will remain in the phase I recovery area longer than a hospitalized client
3. Is allowed to ambulate as soon as being admitted to the recovery area
4. Is immediately given liberal amounts of fluid to promote the excretion of the
anesthesia
ANS: 1
Ambulatory surgical clients are discharged to home when they meet certain criteria. With
new anesthetic agents and techniques, many ambulatory surgery clients are able to bypass
phase I. However, if the client is in need of close monitoring, the client is assessed and
cared for in the same fashion as inpatient clients in phase I. Whether the client will be
able to ambulate as soon as being admitted to the recovery area depends upon the
ambulatory clients condition, type of surgery, and anesthesia. This is not a true statement
for all ambulatory surgery clients. The administration of fluids is dependent upon the
clients condition and type of surgery. The excretion of anesthetic depends on many
factors, including the route of administration (e.g., fluids will not promote the excretion
of anesthetic gases). Oral fluids cannot be given until it is determined the client has a gag
reflex and bowel sounds. Fluids are often given to prevent circulatory complications.
DIF: A
REF: 1395
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
19. Following abdominal surgery, the nurse suspects that the client may be having internal
bleeding. Which of the following findings is indicative of this complication?
1. Increased blood pressure
2. Incisional pain
3. Abdominal distention
4. Increased urinary output
Test Bank
50-10
ANS: 3
Signs of internal bleeding following abdominal surgery may include abdominal
distention; swelling or bruising around the incision; increased pain; a drop in blood
pressure; elevated heart and respiratory rates; thready pulse; cool, clammy, pale skin; and
restlessness. The client who is hemorrhaging will have a decreased blood pressure.
Incisional pain may occur as a result of surgery. A continuous increase in pain in
conjunction with other symptoms of bleeding may indicate internal hemorrhaging. A
client who is bleeding will have a decreased urinary output.
DIF: A
REF: 1397
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
20. After discharge from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), the client returned to the
surgical nursing unit at 10:00 AM. It is now 11:30 AM, and the client is not experiencing
any complications or difficulties. The nurse will plan to measure the clients vital signs:
1. Every 15 minutes
2. Every 30 minutes
3. Every 1 hour
4. Every 4 hours
ANS: 3
Vital sign monitoring on the postoperative nursing unit should initially be hourly for 4
hours and then every 4 hours. As the clients condition stabilizes, the frequency of
assessment will usually decrease to once a shift until discharge. Upon the clients arrival
to recovery, the nurse repeats measurement of vital signs every 15 minutes, not for the
client who is stable on the surgical nursing unit. The client who is not experiencing any
complications or difficulties does not require vital sign measurement every 30 minutes.
After the clients vital signs are obtained hourly for 4 hours and remain stable, the client
may have his or her vital signs measured every 4 hours.
DIF: A
REF: 1396
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
21. The client had surgery in the morning that involved the right femoral artery. To assess the
clients circulation status to the right leg, the nurse will make sure to check the pulse at
the:
1. Radial artery
2. Ulnar artery
3. Brachial artery
4. Dorsalis pedis artery
Test Bank
50-11
ANS: 4
The nurse should assess peripheral pulses and capillary refill distal to the site of surgery.
After surgery to the femoral artery, the nurse assesses posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis
pulses. The nurse also compares pulses in the affected extremity with those in the
nonaffected extremity.
DIF: A
REF: 1397
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
22. Upon admission to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), the client who has no orthopedic
or neurological restrictions is positioned with the:
1. Bed flat and the clients arms to the sides
2. Clients neck flexed and body positioned laterally
3. Head of the bed slightly elevated with the clients head to the side
4. Clients arms crossed over the chest and the bed in high-Fowlers position
ANS: 3
To promote a patent airway, the head of the bed may be slightly elevated and the clients
neck slightly extended, with the clients head turned to the side. The clients head should
not be flexed as this may occlude the airway. The clients arms should never be
positioned over or across the chest, because this reduces maximal chest expansion.
DIF: A
REF: 1393
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
23. A client who is scheduled for surgery is found to have thrombocytopenia. A specific
postoperative concern for the nurse for this client is:
1. Hemorrhage
2. Wound infection
3. Fluid imbalance
4. Respiratory depression
ANS: 1
A client with thrombocytopenia is at risk for hemorrhaging during and after surgery.
Clients with immunological disorders or diabetes mellitus have an increased risk for
wound infection after surgery. A client who has a fever is at risk for fluid imbalance. A
client who has chronic respiratory disease may be at increased risk for respiratory
depression, not the client with thrombocytopenia.
DIF: A
REF: 1370
OBJ: Comprehension
Test Bank
50-12

Alterations
24. A prostate biopsy is an acceptable procedure to be performed as an ambulatory surgery
on an otherwise healthy adult male because the American Society of Anesthesiologists
(ASA) considers that a:
1. Physical status class 1
ANS: 1
ASA physical status classes 1 and 2 and also stable class 3 are now acceptable for
ambulatory surgery. Classes 4 and 5 require inpatient surgery.
DIF: A
REF: 1367
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations
25. Which of the following statements made by a nurse reflects the greatest insight into the
responsibility an ambulatory care nurse has to the clients family?
1. A clients family deserves the attention of the nursing staff.
2. Family is important to my client, and so family is important to me.
3. I consider myself as having several clients: the surgical client and all the family
thats present.
4. I am responsible for keeping the family informed of the status of their loved one
both during and after the procedure.
ANS: 3
Family members attempt to provide support through their presence but face many of the
same stressors as the client. You need to effectively communicate with the client and
family; they are clients as well.
DIF: C
REF: 1386
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
26. Which of the following statements made by a nurse reflects the greatest insight into the
planning needs of a same-day surgical experience?
1. Time is a precious resource in same-day surgery units; being organized allows for
the best utilization of time.
2. Everything must be checked and verified as being ready before the client is
Test Bank
50-13
admitted into the surgical area.

3. With only a few hours from time of admission to the beginning of the procedure,
things have to be effectively organized.
4. I take the time to review the clients preadmission and preoperative data in order
to formulate the most individualized plan of care possible.
ANS: 4
Ambulatory and same-day surgical programs offer challenges in gathering a complete
assessment in a limited time. Clients are admitted only hours before the surgical event, so
it is important for you to organize and verify data obtained preoperatively and implement
a perioperative plan of care. Although the remaining options are not incorrect, they do not
stress the importance of effective organization of the clients plan of care.
DIF: C
REF: 1378
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
27. The perioperative nurse realizes that the most effective means of evaluating the clients
understanding of previous teaching is to:
1. Provide written material on the subject to be reviewed after discharge
2. Reinforce the material with family as the procedure is being performed
3. Discuss it with the client and family in the immediate preoperative period
4. Offer to answer any questions that the client or family have just before discharge
ANS: 3
In the immediate preoperative period, assess the clients understanding of previous
teaching. The other options are not truly evaluations of the clients knowledge.
DIF: C
REF: 1386
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
28. Which of the following preoperative assessment findings would most likely delay a
planned procedure requiring general anesthetic?
1. A cough and low-grade fever
2. The pulse oximetry reading of 97% on room air
3. A blood pressure that is 10 systolic points higher than baseline
4. The clients report of being so nervous about this procedure
ANS: 1
Preoperative assessment occasionally reveals an abnormality that delays or cancels
surgery. A client who presents with a cough and low-grade fever on admission would
require the nurse to notify the surgeon immediately. The other options do not necessarily
warrant delay or cancellation of a procedure.
Test Bank
50-14
DIF: C
REF: 1388
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
29. A 74-year-old is accompanied by his daughter to the ambulatory surgery department for
the surgical removal of a suspicious skin lesion. The client has experienced dysphasia
since a cerebral vascular accident 3 years ago. The most effective way for the nurse to
secure the necessary preoperative interview information is to:
1. Question the clients daughter
2. Review the clients past medical records
3. Present the questions in a simple format
4. Rely on the clients preadmission survey
ANS: 1
If a client is unable to relate all of the necessary information, rely on family members as
resources. The remaining options are not reliable, effective methods of securing
information regarding this client.
DIF: C
REF: 1377
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
30. A client who has type 2 diabetes is scheduled for the removal of a skin lesion on his right
shoulder at an ambulatory surgery unit. The nursing diagnosis the client is at greatest risk
for postoperatively is:
1. Risk for injury
2. Risk for infection
3. Impaired wound healing
4. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
ANS: 3
Diabetes increases susceptibility to infection and impairs wound healing from altered
glucose metabolism and associated circulatory impairment. The stress of surgery often
causes increases in blood glucose levels. Although all the options present with possible
nursing diagnoses, the remaining options are not of primary concern because steps can be
taken (e.g., antibiotic, intravenous fluids) to minimize the risk. Impaired wound healing is
not as easily managed.
DIF: C
REF: 1370
OBJ: Analysis
Test Bank
50-15
Alterations
31. A client with a history of sleep apnea has had a same-day surgery procedure that will
require the administration of morphine postoperatively to manage pain. This client will be
assessed most appropriately by the perioperative nurse for the risk for respiratory
complications by frequently:
1. Listening to breath sounds
2. Monitoring pulse oximetry
3. Evaluating spirometer use
4. Counting respirations per minute
ANS: 1
Administration of opioids increases risk for airway obstruction postoperatively. Clients
will desaturate as revealed by a drop in oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry. The
remaining options are not as specific for this particular clients risk.
DIF: C
REF: 1372
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
32. A client scheduled for an ambulatory surgery procedure requiring anesthetics arrives with
a low-grade fever and a productive sough. The postponement of the procedure is most
likely a result of the:
1. Clients increased risk for a respiratory tract infection
2. Possibility of a respiratory complication during anesthesia
3. Increased risk for the client's infecting staff and other clients
4. Clients impaired resistance as a result of a respiratory tract infection
ANS: 2
Cough and low-grade fever increases the risk for respiratory complications during
anesthesia (e.g., pneumonia and spasm of laryngeal muscles). Although the other options
are not incorrect, they do not represent the most likely risk factor that would result in the
cancellation of the procedure.
DIF: C
REF: 1388
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
33. Which of the following goals is most appropriate for a preoperative client with a nursing
diagnosis of deficient knowledge regarding preoperative requirements related to lack of
exposure to information?
1. Client will understand the need for scheduled surgery before leaving the providers
office.
Test Bank
50-16
2. Client will understand the preoperative routines of surgical care before leaving
providers office.
3. Client will present for drawing of preoperative laboratory blood at least 48 hours
before scheduled surgery.
4. Client will be able to successfully accomplish the preoperative bowel preparation
by morning of scheduled surgery.
ANS: 2
Understanding the need for the surgery is not as directly related to preoperative
requirements as is the understanding of preoperative routines. The remaining options are
client outcomes.
DIF: C
REF: 1380
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
34. Which of the following client outcomes is most therapeutic for a preoperative client with
a nursing diagnosis of deficient knowledge regarding preoperative requirements related
to lack of exposure to information?
1. Client will share the preoperative routines of surgical care with family to facilitate
compliance.
providers office.
3. Client will call laboratory to schedule appointment for preoperative blood draw for
required testing.
4. Client will present for drawing of preoperative laboratory blood at least 48 hours
before scheduled surgery.
ANS: 4
The answer provides for behavior that is measurable and pertinent to the preoperative
goals. Sharing the information and calling for the appointment are appropriate outcomes,
but they are not the most therapeutic because they not related to actual compliance with
the preoperative routine. The remaining option is a client goal.
DIF: C
REF: 1376-1377
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
35. Which of the following client evaluations is most reflective of compliance for a
preoperative client with a nursing diagnosis of deficient knowledge regarding
preoperative requirements related to lack of exposure to information?
1. Client will present for scheduled blood laboratory work 48 hours before surgery.
2. Clients preoperative blood laboratory work results are present on preoperative
Test Bank
50-17
chart.
3. Client will share the preoperative routines of surgical care with family to facilitate
compliance.
providers office.
ANS: 2
The answer shows proof of the clients compliance, whereas the remaining options are
either goals or outcomes.
DIF: C
REF: 1376-1377
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
36. Which of the following best describes the primary nursing role regarding a clients
consent to surgery immediately before surgery?
1. Explaining the procedure to the client in a fashion that is easily understood
2. Placing the signed consent in the clients medical record
3. Ensuring that the client understands the possible risks of the procedure before
signing the consent
4. Reviewing the clients surgical consent as a part of the routine preoperative
checklist
ANS: 4
It is the surgeons responsibility to explain the procedure and obtain the informed
consent. After the client completes the consent form, place it in the medical record. The
record goes to the operating room with the client after the nurse confirms all required
information has been included.
DIF: C
REF: 1378
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
37. The initial client educationrelated nursing action by the preadmission nurse is to:
1. Respond to questions presented by the family regarding the clients surgery
2. Call the client before the surgery to restate presurgery routine
3. Provide the client with a list of preoperative requirements
4. Arrange a time for presurgical blood work to be drawn
ANS: 2
Preadmission nurses call clients up to 1 week before surgery to clarify questions and
reinforce explanations. The remaining options are directed toward either facilitating
compliance with preoperative requirements or addressing the needs of the clients family.
Test Bank
50-18
DIF: C
REF: 1380
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
38. Which of the following statements made by the nurse shows the most informed
understanding of the role of family in the clients postoperative recovery?
1. "The family will be the ones you will be dealing with regarding postoperative
needs."
2. "When the family is more relaxed about caring for the client, the client is more
relaxed."
3. "The more the family understands what to expect during recovery, the more
comfortable they are in caring for the client."
4. "Teaching the family what they need to know before the surgery will maximize
their effectiveness regarding the clients postoperative care."
ANS: 4
Often a family member is the caregiver when the client recovers from surgery.
Perioperative preparation of family members before surgery helps to maximize effective
caregiving while minimizing anxiety and misunderstanding.
DIF: C
REF: 1380
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
39. The nurse recognizes which of the following as the greatest barrier to meeting a
preoperative clients nursing diagnosis of deficient knowledge regarding surgical
procedure?
1. Effects of preoperative medication
2. Complicated nature of the information
3. Fear or anxiety regarding the procedure
4. Emotional denial regarding surgical outcomes
ANS: 3
Anxiety and fear are barriers to learning, and both emotions heighten as surgery
approaches. Education should be provided before any preoperative sedation is
administered; the information should be introduced in terms that the client can
understand. The presence of denial is an assumption that is not necessarily correct.
DIF: C
REF: 1386
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
Test Bank
50-19
40. The nurse knows that the client is most likely going to arrive for the surgical procedure
having adhered to the required bowel preparation if:
1. The client understands the need for the laxative
2. The laxative ordered is pleasant tasting
3. The bowel preparation is an uncomplicated process
4. The client has the appropriate support at home
ANS: 1
Given a rationale for preoperative and postoperative procedures, the client is better
prepared to participate in care. The remaining options may have an effect on compliance
but not to the degree that understanding the need and purpose of the bowel preparation.
DIF: C
REF: 1380
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations
41. Which surgical classification would be the most appropriate for a cardiac catheterization
scheduled on a 44-year-old male client who is in the hospital with chest pain?
1. Major
2. Minor
3. Ablative
4. Elective
ANS: 1
Major surgery involves extensive reconstruction or alteration in body parts and poses
great risks to well-being. Minor surgery involves minimal alteration in body parts, is
often designed to correct deformities, and involves minimal risks compared with major
procedures. Ablative surgery is the excision or removal of a diseased body part. Elective
surgery is performed on the basis of clients choice, is not essential, and is not always
necessary for health.
DIF: B
REF: 1366
OBJ: Application
MSC: NCLEX test plan designation: Psychosocial Integrity/Sensory/Perceptual
Alterations Systems
42. A 36-year-old female diabetic client is having an elective breast augmentation procedure
done. Which of the following tests must be done on the day of surgery?
1. Complete blood count (CBC)
2. Blood glucose
3. Serum electrolytes
4. Coagulation studies
ANS: 2
Test Bank
50-20
Blood glucose level can be obtained by either a finger stick or peripheral blood sample.
Clients often require treatment of low or high levels preoperatively and postoperatively.
DIF: A
REF: 1367
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
43. A 48-year-old male client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) is scheduled for an inguinal hernia repair. The nurse instructs that client that he
can expect the health care provider to order which of the following tests before surgery?
1. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody
2. Prolactin level
3. Pulmonary function test
4. Glucose tolerance test
ANS: 3
Pulmonary function testing and occasionally arterial blood gas analysis are often
performed before surgery on clients with preexisting lung disease. An HIV-antibody test
diagnoses HIV. It is not a test that is normally ordered before surgery. Prolactin levels are
used to diagnose and monitor prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas. A glucose tolerance
test is used to assist in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and is also used in the evaluation
of hypoglycemia. It is not a test that is normally ordered before surgery.
DIF: A
REF: 1377
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
44. A 64-year-old male client has been scheduled to undergo surgery for a total knee
replacement. The client would like to be able to use his own blood for the surgery, if
needed. The nurse explains that there are several advantages to the client's having an
autologous infusion, but there are some drawbacks as well. Which of the following would
be considered a drawback to an autologous infusion?
1. The client has a decreased risk for contracting HIV.
2. There is an decreased risk for infection.
3. The client has less risk for a transfusion reaction.
4. The client may have a decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit level on the day of
surgery.
ANS: 4
Test Bank
50-21
The client must plan ahead in plenty of time in order to be able to donate his own blood.
In addition, the client who does self-donation sometimes exhibits a lower hemoglobin
and hematocrit level on the day of surgery. Autologous infusions are an option for some
clients who choose to donate their own blood before surgery to reduce the risk for
transfusion-related infections. The client is at less risk for a transfusion reaction because
it is his own blood. There is a lowered risk for infection because the blood is from the
client.
DIF: A
REF: 1377
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
45. A 24-year-old male client has been scheduled to undergo surgery for an ACL repair of his
right knee. The client states that he is confused about what the surgeon will be doing. The
best response from the nurse is:
1. "The surgeon went over this procedure with you in his office"
2. "Let me get the surgeon to talk with you before we proceed so that you fully
understand what will be happening"
3. To share with the client what he can expect in regard to the procedure
4. "This is just a simple procedureyou should feel much better afterwards"
ANS: 2
The surgeon is responsible for making sure that the client completely understands the
procedure before the client gives informed consent. The client may not remember the
conversation that the surgeon had with him regarding the procedure due to anxiety. The
nurse should not discount the clients concerns.
DIF: A
REF: 1378
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
46. A 47-year-old female client has been scheduled to undergo surgery for removal of her
gallbladder. Preoperatively the nurse is teaching the client what to expect when she wakes
up in the postanesthesia care center. The nurse tells the client that her vision may be
blurry due to which of the following reasons?
1. The clients blood pressure may be high from the postoperative pain.
2. The client may be slow to arouse from the anesthesia, causing her vision to be
blurred upon waking.
3. The anesthesia provider applies ointment to clients eyes to prevent corneal
damage.
4. The lighting in the postanesthesia area will be subdued, causing the client to have
blurred vision upon waking.
ANS: 3
Test Bank
50-22
The anesthesia provider applies ointment to clients eyes to prevent corneal damage.
Warning clients about sensations of blurred vision will reduce their anxiety on awakening
from surgery. The clients pain should be under control and therefore will not cause her
blood pressure to be raised. The more subdued lighting in the postanesthesia care area
should help the clients vision to focus upon coming out from under the anesthesia.
DIF: A
REF: 1380
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
47. Given a rationale for preoperative and postoperative procedures, the client is better
prepared to participate in care. For which of the following should the nurse provide
instruction and rationale?
1. Incentive spirometry
2. Specific details regarding the progression of diet
3. Working the call button for the nurse
4. Using the patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump
ANS: 1
Given a rationale for preoperative and postoperative procedures, the client is better
prepared to participate in care. The diet progression should be discussed with the client
by the unit nurse as the postsurgical diet progresses. The call light may be specific to the
unit the client is on and is best taught to the client once he or she is on the unit so that the
client can demonstrate to the nurse that he or she understands how to use it. The PCA
pump is best taught to the client once he or she is on the unit so that the client can
demonstrate to the nurse that he or she understands how to use it.
DIF: A
REF: 1380
OBJ: Comprehension
Alterations Systems
48. The nurse is very busy and needs to delegate some tasks to the nursing assistive
personnel (NAP). Which of the following would be the most appropriate task to delegate?
1. Postoperative client teaching
2. Demonstrating postoperative exercises
3. Transporting the preoperative client from the unit to the holding area
4. Reviewing the preoperative assessment to make sure that the clients vital signs
have been documented
ANS: 3
In many hospitals a nursing orderly or transporter brings a stretcher for transporting the
client. The transporter checks the clients identification bracelet for two identifiers against
the clients chart to be sure that the right person is going to surgery.
DIF:
REF: 1380
OBJ: Analysis
Test Bank
50-23

Alterations Systems
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. When discussing the details of having a procedure done in a facility's ambulatory surgery
department, the nurse includes which of the following as advantages? (Select all that
apply.)
1. Facilitates faster postsurgical recovery
2. Reduces hospital-oriented expenses
3. Allows for more one-on-one attention by staff
4. Cuts preparation time for surgical procedures
5. Minimizes risk for acquiring a nosocomial infection
6. The anesthetic drugs used result in faster "wake-up" time
ANS: 1, 2, 5, 6
There are distinct benefits for the client who has ambulatory surgery. Anesthetic drugs
that metabolize rapidly with few after-effects allow shorter operative times and faster
recovery time. Ambulatory surgery also offers cost savings by eliminating the need for
hospital stays. This reduces the possibility of acquiring health careassociated infections,
which occur when normal skin flora changes from hospitalization and clients become
colonized with bacteria found in the hospital setting. Preparation time and staff attention
are not necessarily affected.
DIF: C
REF: 1389
OBJ: Analysis
Alterations

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Chapter 050

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Potter & Perry: Fundamentals of Nursing, 7th Edition

The primary purpose of using an incentive spirometer is to promote lung expansion.

MSC: NCLEX test plan designation: Reduction of Risk Potential/Monitoring

admitted into the surgical area.

TOP: Nursing Process: Planning

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