The nurse on a surgical unit is participating in orientation of a new nurse. Which action by the new nurse requires intervention? A. Preparation for manipulation of an NG tube on a client 2 hours postoperative bariatric surgery B. Instructing a client to splint the surgical site during coughing and deep breathing exercises C. Assisting a two-day postoperative client to ambulate in the hallway D. Beginning an abdominal assessment by auscultating bowel sounds

In postoperative care, especially after bariatric surgery, it is essential for nurses to perform specific interventions to ensure a safe and conducive environment for healing.

Nursing interventions may include monitoring vital signs, assessing pain, managing drains like nasogastric (NG) tubes, monitoring fluid and electrolyte balances, and preventing infection. Careful observation of surgical sites for signs of infection or complications is paramount. One critical aspect is managing NG tubes judiciously, as premature or improper manipulation can cause harm—this very action warranted intervention in the given scenario.

Other interventions involve guiding patients through doctor-recommended exercises such as coughing and deep breathing while splinting the surgical site to facilitate lung expansion and prevent atelectasis, thereby reducing the risk of pneumonia. Moreover, promoting early ambulation is a key nursing intervention post-surgery, as this helps prevent serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis and enhances overall recovery.

Complications following bariatric surgery can be acute or chronic, and understanding these is crucial for both nursing staff and patients.

Immediate Complications

Some immediate complications post-surgery include bleeding, infection, tissue perforation, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. In the context of the exercise, early manipulation of an NG tube can potentially lead to bleeding or perforation, representing an immediate complication.

Long-term Complications

On a long-term scale, patients may contend with nutritional deficiencies, herniation, ulcers, or intestinal blockages. Educating patients on signs and symptoms that warrant medical attention is a vital part of postoperative care to ensure any complications are addressed promptly.

Education after surgery is a cornerstone of postoperative care and aims to empower patients with information necessary for recovery.

Such education encompasses instructions on medication management, recognition of complication signs, dietary guidelines, and the importance of physical activity. Teaching patients how to properly splint their incisions during coughing and deep breathing exercises contributes to pain management and lowers the chances of wound dehiscence.

Educating patients on the benefits of regular ambulation post-surgery not only furthers understanding but also allies fears, enabling greater compliance with mobility guidelines. Comprehensive patient education can dramatically reduce readmission rates and improve long-term outcomes for post-bariatric surgery patients.