ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ReadingEasy
A patient is given a discharge summary that includes the following instruction: 'Avoid heavy lifting for 6 weeks post-surgery to prevent incisional hernia.' What is the primary purpose of this instruction?
- ATo allow the surgical incision to become fully invisible.
- BTo ensure the patient maintains a high level of physical fitness.
- CTo prevent a common post-operative complication.
- DTo encourage the patient to seek physical therapy.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. To prevent a common post-operative complication.
The instruction directly addresses a specific post-operative risk, an incisional hernia, and provides a clear action to mitigate it. This is a common and critical part of patient education following surgery.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incision visibility is a cosmetic concern, not a primary medical complication addressed by avoiding heavy lifting.
- B. While physical fitness is important, this instruction's primary purpose is not general fitness but specific complication prevention.
- D. Physical therapy might be recommended for other reasons, but this specific instruction is not about therapy referral.
Post-operative Instruction Purpose
Post-operative instructions are given to patients after surgery to guide their recovery, prevent complications, and promote healing.
- Focus on preventing specific complications.
- Provide actionable steps for patient care.
- Are crucial for successful recovery.
Memory trick: After surgery, avoid the 'oops' by following the rules.