Question

The nurse is giving discharge instructions to a patient who had valve surgery. Which home care instructions does the nurse include in the teaching plan? (Select all that apply.)

a. Increase consumption of foods high in vitamin K.
b. Use an electric razor to avoid skin cuts.
c. Report any bleeding or excessive bruising.
d. Watch for and report any fever, drainage, or redness at the site.
e. Avoid heavy lifting for 3 to 6 months.
f. Report dyspnea, syncope, dizziness, edema, and palpitations.

Answer 1

The nurse should include instructions on using an electric razor, reporting bleeding or excessive bruising, watching for signs of infection, avoiding heavy lifting, and reporting symptoms of complications. This instruction helps the nurse monitor for any signs of complications, such as heart failure or arrhythmias.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the following home care instructions in the teaching plan for a patient who had valve surgery: Use an electric razor to avoid skin cuts: This instruction is important because it helps prevent any cuts or injuries to the skin while shaving, which can lead to bleeding and infections. Report any bleeding or excessive bruising: This instruction is essential as it helps the nurse monitor for any post-surgical complications, such as bleeding or hematoma formation.

Watch for and report any fever, drainage, or redness at the site: This instruction is crucial in identifying signs of infection at the surgical site, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Avoid heavy lifting for 3 to 6 months: This instruction is important for proper healing and preventing strain on the surgical site. Report dyspnea, syncope, dizziness, edema, and palpitations: This instruction helps the nurse monitor for any signs of complications, such as heart failure or arrhythmias.