A client with a fracture of the right femur has had skeletal traction applied. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's nursing care plan?
Assess the pin sites for signs of infection.
Administer pain medication at designated intervals around the clock.
Assess the pulses proximal to the fracture site.
Remove traction every shift and provide skin care.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Assessing the pin sites for signs of infection is essential in clients with skeletal traction to detect any early signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or purulent drainage. Prompt identification and management of pin site infections can prevent complications.
B. Administering pain medication at designated intervals around the clock helps to ensure adequate pain control and comfort for the client. However, this intervention alone does not specifically address the care needs related to skeletal traction.
C. Assessing the pulses proximal to the fracture site is important for monitoring circulation and detecting any signs of impaired perfusion. However, this assessment is not directly related to the care of skeletal traction itself.
D. Removing traction every shift is not indicated unless there is a specific reason to do so as ordered by the healthcare provider. Continuous traction is often necessary for proper alignment and stabilization of the fracture. Additionally, providing skin care is important to prevent skin breakdown around the traction device, but removing traction every shift is not part of routine care.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Palpating the right flank for tenderness is essential to assess for possible renal involvement, such as a kidney infection or kidney stone, which could be causing the urinary symptoms and right lower back pain. However, it is not the initial step.
B. Testing the urine for the presence of hematuria is important in assessing for potential urinary tract infection or other renal pathology but does not directly address the cause of the right lower back pain.
C. Evaluating the urine for a strong odor may provide information about a possible urinary tract infection, but it is not the most immediate intervention for addressing the client's symptoms, compared to measuring the vital signs.
D. Measuring the temperature and pulse rate is important for identifying any signs of systemic infection or inflammation that could be contributing to the patient's symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Fentanyl and hydromorphone are potent opioids often used for pain management, but they are not typically first-line medications for acute chest pain associated with suspected myocardial infarction.
B. Hydromorphone, like fentanyl, is an opioid analgesic primarily used for moderate to severe pain but is not the first choice for managing acute chest pain.
C. Morphine is the medication of choice for managing acute chest pain associated with myocardial infarction. It helps alleviate pain, reduce myocardial oxygen demand, and relieve anxiety.
D. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain but is not typically indicated as first-line therapy for acute chest pain associated with myocardial infarction.
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