A nurse is caring for a client 8 hr postoperative following a total knee replacement. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Encourage increased fluid take.
Promote bed rest for 5-7 days.
Place a pillow under the affected limb.
Apply cool compresses to the affected limb every 6 hr.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Encouraging adequate fluid intake is important postoperatively to maintain hydration and support normal physiological functions. However, the amount of fluid intake should be within the client's tolerance and as prescribed by the healthcare provider. It helps prevent complications such as dehydration and promotes circulation, which is beneficial for wound healing.
B. While some rest and limited mobility are initially recommended after knee replacement surgery to allow for healing and to prevent complications, prolonged bed rest for 5-7 days is not typically necessary or recommended. Early mobilization and gradual increase in activity are encouraged to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis and to promote recovery.
C. Placing a pillow directly under the knee is not recommended as it can lead to decreased range of motion and potential contractures.
D. Cold therapy, such as applying cool compresses, is often used to reduce swelling and pain in the initial postoperative period. It can help manage pain and discomfort and promote comfort for the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH (<7.35) and a decreased bicarbonate (HCO3) level (<22 mEq/L). The ABG results show a pH of 7.30 and HCO3 of 18 mEq/L, which are consistent with metabolic acidosis. The low HCO3 indicates that there is an accumulation of acids or loss of bicarbonate in the blood.
B. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (>7.45) and an elevated bicarbonate level (>26 mEq/L). The ABG results show a low pH and low HCO3, which do not support metabolic alkalosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (>7.45) and a low PaCO2 (<35 mm Hg). The pH in this scenario is low (7.30), which does not align with respiratory alkalosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (<7.35) and an elevated PaCO2 (>45 mm Hg). While the pH is low, indicating acidosis, the PaCO2 in this case is low (28 mm Hg), which does not support respiratory acidosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Diarrhea can lead to loss of bicarbonate from the body, resulting in metabolic acidosis. The loss of bicarbonate through gastrointestinal fluids causes an imbalance between acids and bases in the body.
B. Salicylates (such as aspirin) can cause metabolic acidosis by several mechanisms, including direct stimulation of the respiratory center in the brainstem (leading to hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis initially) and later causing metabolic acidosis due to increased production of acids like lactic acid and ketoacids.
C. Vomiting can lead to loss of gastric acid (hydrochloric acid), which could initially lead to metabolic alkalosis due to loss of acid.
D. Thiazide diuretics can cause metabolic alkalosis rather than metabolic acidosis. They promote the loss of potassium and hydrogen ions (acid), leading to increased blood pH (alkalosis).
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