What should a nurse focus on when providing care for a client with recent heart surgery?

Monitoring for signs of infection is crucial when caring for a client who has recently undergone heart surgery. After surgery, patients are at an increased risk for infections due to factors such as surgical incisions, the use of intravenous lines, and potential exposure to pathogens in a hospital environment. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, warmth at the surgical site, fever, and increased pain. Swift identification and management of any infections are essential to prevent complications that could hinder recovery and overall healing.

The other options do not align with the goals of post-operative care. Encouraging vigorous exercise too early can strain the heart and disrupt the healing process. High sodium intake is counterproductive as it can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure, which are particularly concerning after heart surgery. Additionally, emotional health is an important aspect of overall recovery; ignoring changes in a patient’s emotional state can lead to issues such as anxiety or depression, which may affect compliance with recovery protocols and long-term outcomes. Thus, the focus on monitoring for infection serves a critical role in promoting the patient’s recovery and well-being following surgery.