Dale Case Study
Dennis, a 32-year-old construction worker, fell off a roof 2 months ago and, as a result, needs to have surgery on his ankle.
The nurse is preparing him for the surgery and begins the admission process. During the interview, Dale mentions he is a
bit nervous because his cousin had a surgery and had a “terrible reaction” to the medications. Please address the following:
1. Is the information about Dale’s cousin important? (Explain)
2. What further questions will the nurse ask?
3. When obtaining a history, how many generations back should the nurse ask about?
4. What will be done about Dale’s surgery?
Discussion Assignment Instructions:
– Provide a substantive and initial response post (minimum of one paragraph, or 6-8
sentences in length)
– Respond to a peer’s post (minimum of one paragraph, or 4-6 sentences in length)
– Ensure that the initial response post and response to a peer’s post are on a separate day.
– cite from the course text book and one scholarly reference (e.g. peer reviewed nursing
journal, government site, reputable health institute or system)
– Complete and submit the discussion forum by the due date: 05/28/2021 at 11:59pm (a
grace period of 72 hours and grade deduction will occur for a late discussion submission.
Sample Answer
- Is the information about Dale’s cousin important? (Explain)
Preoperative preparations play a crucial role in the surgical process in that they minimize the effects and the potential risks of the surgical intervention. The information about Dale’s cousin is essential because it shows the emotions, knowledge, and experience that the patient has regarding the surgical process. It presents an opportunity for the nurse to address the emotional challenge that the patient is experiencing (Gillis et al., 2017). Notably, the nurse will find out the possible reasons that might have made Dale’s cousin have a “terrible reaction” to medication.
- What further questions will the nurse ask?
The further questions that the nurse will ask include the medical history and physical examination. It is essential to note the allergies and the sensitivities of the patient. Suppose the nurse notices the risks factors and specific clinical factors that will impact the success of the surgery. In that case, there will be a need to conduct laboratory tests before having the patient undergo ankle surgery.
- When obtaining a history, how many generations back should the nurse ask about?
To obtain a history, the nurse should ask about at least three generations of the patient (Musunuru et al., 2020). The family history provides vital information that will guide decisions related to genetic testing.
- What will be done about Dale’s surgery?
Once all the preparations for the ankle surgery are done, and Dale is ready for surgery, the nurse will cleanse the part receiving the surgery and place an IV on Dale’s arm. The surgical team will then take over. The team will comprise the foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons and the nurses. Dale will require a form of anesthesia that will facilitate the surgery. The team will choose one of the anesthesia options, including regional anesthesia, general anesthesia, and sedation. After the surgery, Dale will be monitored, and the surgeon will decide whether to have Dale as an inpatient or an outpatient.
