A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about the risk factors for dehiscence for surgical clients who have surgical incisions. Which of the following should the nurse include? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Pain medication administration does not directly contribute to dehiscence, which results from mechanical stress or poor healing. While pain control is important, it is not a primary risk factor compared to nutrition, obesity, or infection, making this incorrect. Choice B reason: Poor nutritional state is a risk factor for dehiscence, as inadequate protein and vitamins impair collagen synthesis, weakening wound closure. Malnutrition delays healing, increasing the risk of incision separation under stress, making this a correct factor to include. Choice C reason: Obesity increases dehiscence risk due to excessive tension on incisions from adipose tissue, poor vascularity, and higher infection rates. This mechanical and physiological stress compromises wound integrity, making it a correct factor to include in teaching. Choice D reason: Altered mental state is not a direct risk factor for dehiscence, though it may affect compliance with activity restrictions. Physical factors like infection or obesity have a stronger impact on wound healing, making this incorrect. Choice E reason: Wound infection is a key risk factor for dehiscence, as bacterial activity weakens tissue and disrupts healing, causing incision breakdown. These compromises wound integrity, making it a critical factor to include in teaching about surgical complications.