In Scenario #2 for Ruth Cummings, what is an important educational focus?

Focusing on the use of an Incentive Spirometer is critical in the post-operative care of patients, especially those who have undergone thoracic or abdominal surgery. The Incentive Spirometer is a device designed to encourage patients to take deep breaths, which can help prevent complications such as atelectasis (collapse of part or all of a lung) and pneumonia.

When patients use an Incentive Spirometer, they are motivated to increase their lung volume and improve oxygenation by taking slow, deep breaths. This process is vital for recovery as it promotes effective breathing patterns, helps clear secretions, and enhances lung expansion.

Educating Ruth Cummings about the proper technique for using the Incentive Spirometer, including how often to use it and the expected outcomes, helps support her recovery and reduces the risk of respiratory complications. This focus ensures that she understands the importance of maintaining optimal lung function during her recovery, contributing to better overall health outcomes.

Other options, while important in post-operative care, do not directly address the critical need for respiratory function and lung health in the immediate post-surgical period.