A client diagnosed with cervical spine degeneration has undergone a laminectomy. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Measure the drainage from the Jackson Pratt every day.
Position the client prone with the knees slightly elevated.
Encourage the client to postpone the use of narcotic medications.
Assess the client for difficulty speaking or breathing.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Measuring drainage from the Jackson-Pratt drain is important, but this is not the primary intervention to address post-laminectomy complications.
B. The patient should generally be positioned in a neutral, stable position, but not specifically prone with knees elevated, which may be uncomfortable or inappropriate for the cervical region.
C. Narcotics may be required for pain control, especially postoperatively, so advising the patient to avoid them is inappropriate.
D. Following a cervical spine laminectomy, the nurse should assess the client for any signs of nerve or spinal cord injury, such as difficulty speaking or breathing. These symptoms may indicate spinal cord compression or other complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The first priority is to assess whether the numbness and tingling in the left leg are new or a preexisting symptom. This helps identify if there are complications like nerve injury or issues with the surgical site.
B. While documenting the findings is important, it’s more critical to compare these new symptoms with preoperative findings to identify potential complications.
C. Drawing blood for serum calcium is not directly relevant to the immediate issue of nerve symptoms after a laminectomy.
D. Telling the client that the symptoms are normal could lead to delayed intervention if there is a more serious issue, like nerve damage or surgical complications.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. An adductor pillow helps maintain proper alignment and prevents the hip from crossing the midline (adduction).
B. Limiting hip flexion to 90 degrees prevents dislocation by avoiding positions that could stress the hip joint.
C. A fracture pan is not a necessary precaution for a total hip replacement; it is more relevant for clients with fractures.
D. Adduction should be avoided to prevent the hip from dislocating.
E. Internal rotation can cause the hip to dislocate, so it should be avoided.
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