The nurse is performing the shift assessment of a postsurgical patient. The nurse finds his mental status, level of consciousness, speech, and orientation are intact and at baseline, but the patient tells you he is very anxious. What should the nurse do next?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should ask the patient about his anxiety to identify the cause possibly pain, fear, or hypoxia per postoperative assessment principles. Oxygen levels are a follow-up if respiratory signs emerge; medication or physician notification is premature without data. Understanding the patient's concerns guides care, aligning with holistic postoperative management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Referring to the surgeon ensures accurate risk discussion, per scope of practice. Explaining oversteps; reassuring or deferring fully avoids responsibility. Preoperative care escalates appropriately.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Brachial plexus block anesthetizes the arm, fitting shoulder surgery, per block types. Appendectomy , hysterectomy , or cholecystectomy use different blocks. Intraoperative care matches anesthesia to site.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Checking oxygen saturation assesses for pulmonary embolism, per priority data collection. Oxygen or notification follows; coughing is secondary. Postoperative care evaluates respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Avoiding heavy lifting prevents recurrence, per discharge data. Walking , fiber , or medication are safe. Teaching protects repair.