A nurse is monitoring a client who is 36 hr postoperative following a left knee arthroscopy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Discoloration at the postoperative site: Mild bruising or ecchymosis around the incision is common after arthroscopy and generally expected. It does not usually indicate a complication requiring immediate reporting. B. Urinary output 150 mL/hr: A urinary output of 150 mL/hr is above the minimum expected hourly output (typically 30 mL/hr) and suggests adequate renal perfusion. This finding does not require immediate notification. C. Client report of pain at the incision site: Some pain at the incision site is expected postoperatively. While pain should be managed, reporting to the provider is not urgent unless it is uncontrolled or accompanied by other concerning signs. D. Blood pressure 78/38 mm Hg: Hypotension at this level is significant and can indicate hypovolemia, bleeding, or shock. Immediate reporting to the provider is necessary to prevent organ hypoperfusion and initiate prompt interventions.