A nurse is assisting a post-operative client in a surgical recovery ward. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.

Rationale for Correct Answers Potential Condition: Post-Operative Nausea Post-operative nausea is a common complication following surgery, particularly in clients receiving opioid analgesics such as morphine. This client reports persistent nausea and has experienced multiple episodes of emesis despite antiemetic therapy with ondansetron. Reduced oral intake, absence of urine output prior to Foley insertion, and ongoing vomiting support the presence of post-operative nausea, which can contribute to fluid imbalance and delayed recovery. Actions to Take Educate on deep breathing exercises Deep breathing exercises help reduce nausea by promoting relaxation, decreasing sympathetic stimulation, and improving oxygenation. This nonpharmacologic intervention complements prescribed antiemetic therapy and can be easily implemented at the bedside. Provide ginger tea for nausea Ginger is a well-supported complementary therapy shown to reduce nausea and vomiting. Offering ginger tea provides a gentle, noninvasive option that may improve symptom control and support hydration if tolerated. Parameters to Monitor Fluid balance Monitoring intake and output is critical due to ongoing emesis and IV fluid administration. Assessing fluid balance helps identify dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at maintaining hydration. Dietary intake Tracking oral intake helps evaluate the client’s tolerance to nutrition and fluids as nausea improves. Gradual increases in intake indicate symptom resolution and readiness for progression in post-operative recovery. Rationale for Incorrect Potential Conditions Insomnia Although discomfort may disrupt rest, nausea and vomiting are not primary manifestations of insomnia. Chronic pain syndrome The client’s pain is acute and post-surgical, not chronic in nature. Generalized anxiety disorder While anxiety can exacerbate nausea, there is no evidence of persistent or excessive anxiety meeting diagnostic criteria for this condition.