A client has come to the orthopedic clinic for a follow-up appointment 6 weeks after fracturing his ankle. Diagnostic imaging reveals that bone union is not taking place. What factor most likely contributed to this complication?
Inadequate immobilization
Venous thromboembolism
Inadequate vitamin D intake
Bleeding at the injury site
The Correct Answer is A
A. Inadequate immobilization: Proper immobilization is essential for fractured bones to heal correctly. Immobilization, often achieved through casts, splints, or other orthopedic devices, stabilizes the broken bone fragments, allowing them to fuse back together. If the immobilization is not sufficient or if the patient doesn't follow the prescribed immobilization protocol, there can be excessive movement at the fracture site, hindering the healing process.
B. Venous thromboembolism: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to the formation of blood clots in veins, usually in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) that can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). While VTE is a potential complication after a fracture, it is not a direct cause of delayed bone union.
C. Inadequate vitamin D intake: Vitamin D is essential for bone health as it helps the body absorb calcium, which is crucial for bone formation and maintenance. Inadequate vitamin D levels can weaken bones and impair the healing process, but it's not a common cause of delayed bone union unless there are severe deficiencies or underlying medical conditions.
D. Bleeding at the injury site: Bleeding at the injury site occurs immediately after the fracture and is a natural part of the body's response to injury. While excessive bleeding can lead to complications, it is not a likely cause of delayed bone union six weeks after the injury. In the early stages of healing, bleeding is replaced by the formation of a hematoma, which eventually transforms into a callus and aids in the bone healing process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Applying ice intermittently - Ice application helps reduce swelling and inflammation by constricting blood vessels. It is effective in managing pain and preventing further tissue damage in contusions, strains, and sprains.
B. Elevating the injured limb - Elevating the injured limb above the level of the heart helps reduce swelling by allowing fluids to drain away from the injured area. This is particularly important in managing contusions, strains, and sprains where swelling is a common symptom. Elevation supports the body's natural healing processes.
C. Resting the affected extremity - Rest is essential to allow the injured tissue to heal. Avoiding movement and stress on the affected area prevents further damage and promotes the healing process. Resting the extremity prevents additional strain on the injured muscles, ligaments, or tendons, allowing the body to repair the damaged tissues effectively.
D. Massaging the affected limb - Massaging the affected limb is generally not recommended in the acute phase of musculoskeletal injuries, especially contusions, strains, or sprains. Massaging can potentially worsen the injury, increase swelling, and cause further tissue damage. It is important to wait until the initial acute phase has passed and consult a healthcare professional before considering massage therapy.
E. Compression dressings - Compression helps control swelling by applying pressure to the injured area. Compression dressings or bandages provide support to the injured limb, minimize swelling, and reduce the risk of further injury. However, it's essential to apply compression correctly to avoid cutting off circulation, and it's usually best done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Restrict calcium intake to one serving per day:
This statement is not accurate. Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health. Calcium-rich foods are important for maintaining strong bones and are not directly related to gout or uric acid kidney stones. It's crucial to differentiate between dietary recommendations for different health conditions.
B. Take 3,000 mg of vitamin C daily:
High doses of vitamin C can increase urinary oxalate and uric acid levels, which might contribute to the formation of kidney stones. It is generally not recommended for individuals with a history of uric acid kidney stones.
C. The nurse should instruct the client to limit foods high in purines.
Dietary changes are important in managing gout and preventing uric acid kidney stones. Purines are natural substances found in many foods, especially animal products, and purine-rich foods can contribute to increased uric acid levels, leading to gout attacks and kidney stones.
D. Eat 12 oz of animal protein daily:
Consuming excessive amounts of animal protein, particularly red meat, can lead to higher purine intake, which is not advisable for individuals prone to gout and uric acid kidney stones. High animal protein intake can increase uric acid production and may exacerbate these conditions. Moderation in protein intake, especially from animal sources, is recommended.
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