What is the appropriate action for a nurse if a client has muscle spasms post-surgery?

Reporting the finding of muscle spasms post-surgery is essential for a few reasons. First, muscle spasms can indicate a complication or an adverse reaction to surgery, which may require further medical evaluation or intervention by the healthcare team. Prompt communication ensures that the surgical team can assess the situation and determine if any immediate action is necessary, such as adjusting the patient’s treatment plan or further investigating the cause of the spasms. Additionally, documentation of such findings is crucial for ongoing patient care.

While other actions, such as applying heat or encouraging stretching, might provide symptomatic relief in some cases, they do not address the need for a clinical evaluation of the spasms. Administering pain medication might also help alleviate discomfort but does not resolve the underlying issue or ensure proper oversight for potential complications. Therefore, prioritizing reporting allows for a comprehensive approach to patient care and safety.