What is a major nursing diagnosis following a mastoidectomy?

The major nursing diagnosis following a mastoidectomy is related to safety concerns due to the procedure's impact on the ear and surrounding structures. After this type of surgery, patients may experience changes in balance or coordination due to damage to the surrounding structures or the inner ear, which can affect their stability. This increased risk for falls or injuries makes safety a priority in the nursing care plan.

Additionally, the patient may be at risk for other complications that could impact their safety, such as dizziness, vertigo, or impaired use of the affected ear. Therefore, vigilant monitoring and precautions are necessary to ensure the patient's safety during their recovery.

While risk for infection can also be a concern post-operatively, safety encompasses a broader range of potential issues that may arise. Impaired skin integrity could be relevant depending on the surgical site, and imbalanced nutrition may be applicable depending on the patient's dietary intake, but they are not as immediate and critical as the safety needs following this specific surgical procedure.