Lydia is scheduled for elective splenectomy. Before the client goes to surgery, the nurse in charge final assessment would be:
A. Signed consent
B. Vital signs
C. Name band
D. Empty bladder
Correct Answer: B. Vital signs
An elective procedure is scheduled in advance so that all preparations can be completed ahead of time. The vital signs are the final check that must be completed before the client leaves the room so that continuity of care and assessment is provided for.
Option A: A signed consent is needed as soon as the client has consented to the procedure. General anesthesia is required. The patient is placed in the supine position, with the arms extended. The surgeon stands on the patient’s right side with the assistant opposite.
Option C: Name bands are given to the client upon admission. Sequential compression devices are used before the operation begins. Preoperative antibiotics are given within 60 minutes of the skin incision. The skin is prepared and draped with aseptic technique in the standard surgical fashion.
Option D: The client may empty the bladder prior to surgery, but it is not of the utmost importance. Before open splenectomy, a Foley catheter should be placed. An orogastric or nasogastric tube should be inserted during intubation and removed postoperatively as clinically indicated.