Chapter 19, Problem 1CAQ

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Why does Ms. T inspect the incision of Mr. L, when he asked questions regarding his medications?

Case summary:

Ms. T is the staff nurse who is involved in care planning of Mr. L. The patient has some queries regarding his medications. He wants clarification from Ms. T about it before discharge. The staff nurse conducts further assessment and asks Mr. L that what questions he have regarding his medications. She also assesses the knowledge of Mr. L regarding his medications and time at which he may go to sleep and eat meals.

The staff nurse checks the abdominal incision of Mr. L and finds that the drainage has not increased. She analyses the signs and symptoms of the wound infection. She explains to Mr. L about the time, purpose and doses for administration of drugs and asked him to explain back about the time to take medicines.

Explanation of Solution

Healing of the incision depends upon the health condition of the patient and surgery type. Large and deep incisions may take 6 to 8 weeks of time to heal. People having medical problems or taking prescribed medications may take longer time to heal. Mr. L is taking the prescribed medication, that’s why Ms. T checks the abdominal incision to find out the healing condition. This assessment is required because, the patient is about to be discharged and going to take medications at home.

Conclusion

The medications which are taken by Mr. L can alter the healing condition of the incision and he is going to take some medications at home therefore, Ms. T checks the incision.