The nurse is reinforcing instructions to a client following mastectomy who will be discharged with an axillary drain in place. The client will be receiving home care visits from the nurse to monitor drainage and perform dressing changes. Which client statement indicates a need for further teaching?

Answer: I should continue the exercise of upper arm as soon as I reach home.

Mastectomy is the removal of breast due to cancer or for the prevention of cancer. After this surgery there is a placement of plastic tube in order to collect the fluid so as to prevent infections. In this case just after the surgery the person should be engaged in exercises.

The person should not take part in any of the upper body movement as exercises, lifting heavy weights and any other activity which stresses the upper arm.

As long as the person is continuing the dressing she should not engage himself in any exercise.