On the third postoperative day following thoracic surgery, which action is appropriate?

• A. Provide chest physiotherapy
• B. Encourage ambulation around the unit
• C. Administer prescribed analgesics as needed
• D. Provide warm prune juice before the client goes to bed at night

Answer: (D)

Preventing and managing postoperative constipation is a common and important focus after thoracic surgery, especially when opioids and reduced mobility are involved. Warm prune juice acts as a gentle laxative due to its sorbitol content, helping stimulate bowel movements and reduce the risk of fecal impaction. Giving it before bed targets the time when the bowel is most likely to move, supporting regularity and comfort during recovery.

Other actions support lung function and comfort—chest physiotherapy helps clear secretions, ambulation aids circulation and respiration, and analgesics ensure pain control to enable coughing and deep breathing. While these are important, prune juice directly addresses a frequent, specific postoperative risk at this stage.