What precaution should be taken after mastectomy?

What precaution should be taken after mastectomy?

• A. Keep the arm in a sling at all times.
• B. Do not raise the arm above shoulder height.
• C. Begin resistance training immediately.
• D. No restrictions on arm movement.

Answer: (B)

Protecting healing tissue and maintaining proper lymphatic drainage are the main concerns after mastectomy. Keeping the operated arm from being raised above shoulder height helps minimize tension on the chest wall and incision, which supports proper healing and reduces the risk of wound problems and lymphedema while the area recovers. Light, guided range-of-motion work is typically introduced gradually as healing allows, but without lifting the arm above shoulder height. Immobility in a sling all the time can cause stiffness and poor circulation, starting resistance training right away can stress the new incision, and having no restrictions ignores healing needs.

Protecting healing tissue and maintaining proper lymphatic drainage are the main concerns after mastectomy. Keeping the operated arm from being raised above shoulder height helps minimize tension on the chest wall and incision, which supports proper healing and reduces the risk of wound problems and lymphedema while the area recovers. Light, guided range-of-motion work is typically introduced gradually as healing allows, but without lifting the arm above shoulder height. Immobility in a sling all the time can cause stiffness and poor circulation, starting resistance training right away can stress the new incision, and having no restrictions ignores healing needs.