Which complication would the nurse monitor for in a client on strict bed rest for 3 days?

Which complication would the nurse monitor for in a client on strict bed rest for 3 days?

• A. Atelectasis
• B. Hypotension
• C. Constipation
• D. Urinary tract infection

Answer: (A)

Immobilization leads to shallow breathing and poor clearance of respiratory secretions, which increases the risk of atelectasis during days of strict bed rest. The lung areas may collapse from hypoventilation, lowering oxygenation, so the nurse monitors for changes like new or diminished breath sounds, faster breathing, or decreasing oxygen saturation. Prevention centers on deep breathing and coughing, incentive spirometry, frequent turning, and adequate fluids. Other problems such as constipation or urinary tract infection can occur with immobility, but atelectasis is the most immediate respiratory risk in the first few days.

Immobilization leads to shallow breathing and poor clearance of respiratory secretions, which increases the risk of atelectasis during days of strict bed rest. The lung areas may collapse from hypoventilation, lowering oxygenation, so the nurse monitors for changes like new or diminished breath sounds, faster breathing, or decreasing oxygen saturation. Prevention centers on deep breathing and coughing, incentive spirometry, frequent turning, and adequate fluids. Other problems such as constipation or urinary tract infection can occur with immobility, but atelectasis is the most immediate respiratory risk in the first few days.