A nurse is caring for a female client following abdominal surgery. Select the 2 findings that the nurse should recognize as expected findings.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Abdominal assessment: A distended abdomen with hypoactive bowel sounds on postoperative day 3 is not expected and can suggest developing postoperative ileus. The continued absence of bowel movements and persistent distention indicate delayed return of bowel function and require further assessment. B. Hematocrit: A hematocrit of 34% on postoperative day 1 is slightly low and reflects postoperative hemodilution or mild blood loss, but it is not an expected finding for postoperative day 3 since no new labs are provided. C. Oxygen saturation: An oxygen saturation of 97% on room air on postoperative day 3 demonstrates adequate oxygenation and recovery of respiratory function. It indicates that the client is no longer requiring supplemental oxygen, which is expected as mobility improves and anesthetic effects wear off. D. Pain assessment: Severe pain rated 8–9 out of 10 on postoperative day 3, despite medication, is not expected. Pain should be gradually improving by this time, and uncontrolled pain suggests complications such as infection, ileus, or abscess formation that require further evaluation. E. Urinary output: A 12-hr urine output of 800 mL reflects normal renal function and adequate hydration. This level of urine production is expected postoperatively, especially with an indwelling catheter in place ensuring accurate measurement.