A client with breast cancer is returned to the room following a right total mastectomy. The nurse should:
A. Keep the client’s right arm on the bed beside her
B. Place the client’s right arm in a dependent sling
C. Elevate the client’s right arm on pillows
D. Place the client’s right arm across her body
Correct Answer: C. Elevate the client’s right arm on pillows
Option C: A total mastectomy involves removal of the entire breast and some or all of the axillary lymph nodes. Following surgery, the client’s right arm should be elevated on pillows, to facilitate lymph drainage.
Options A, B, and D: These interventions would not help facilitate lymph drainage and would create increased edema in the affected extremity.