For a patient with an incision in the lower left abdomen, what intervention can help alleviate discomfort when coughing postoperatively?

Applying a splint directly over the lower abdomen provides targeted support to the incision site, which is particularly important when a patient needs to cough. Coughing can cause increased pressure and strain on the surgical area, potentially leading to pain or complications such as wound dehiscence. By using a splint, the patient can compress the abdominal area, which helps to stabilize the incision and minimizes discomfort during the act of coughing.

This intervention not only alleviates pain but also encourages a more effective cough by facilitating the movement of air and clearance of secretions, which is crucial in the postoperative period to prevent respiratory complications. It is a simple yet effective method to support the patient’s healing while ensuring comfort.

Other interventions, such as keeping the patient flat with flexed feet or turning her to one side, do not provide direct support to the incision and may not alleviate discomfort associated with coughing. Additionally, applying a splint both above and below the incision might not be as effective as focusing on the specific area of discomfort. Hence, placing the splint directly over the incision is the most appropriate and beneficial approach in this scenario.