Question

For which surgical complication does the nurse assess in a patient who took gingko prior to surgery?

A. Increased risk of bleeding.
B. Elevated blood pressure.
C. Respiratory depression.
D. Impaired wound healing.

Answer 1

The nurse assesses for an increased risk of bleeding in patients who have taken gingko before surgery because of its blood-thinning effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should assess a patient who took gingko prior to surgery for an increased risk of bleeding. Gingko has been known to have anticoagulant, or blood-thinning effects, which can lead to this surgical complication. Unlike the other options, which are not commonly linked to gingko usage, the risk of excessive bleeding is a well-documented concern and must be addressed by healthcare professionals prior to any surgical procedure to ensure patient safety.