For a client who had a transsphenoidal resection of a pituitary tumor, the nurse plans to
A) assess the "mustache" dressing for drainage.
B) do minimal mouth care for the first 2 days.
C) encourage the use of straws when drinking.
D) provide heated mist and humidified oxygen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Postoperative care after pituitary surgery using a transsphenoidal approach includes prohibition of the use of straws for drinking any fluid, to prevent trauma to the oral/gingival incision site. Frequent oral hygiene is provided, and a cool mist vaporizer may be used to keep oral mucous membranes moist. The nasal drip pad ("mustache" dressing pad) is assessed frequently for bloody and/or clear CSF.

For a Client Who Had a Transsphenoidal Resection of a Pituitary