A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hours postoperative following the application of an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Wrap sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins.
Adjust the clamps on the fixator frame.
Maintain the affected extremity in a dependent position.
Palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
This is to assess for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction, which is a potential complication of a tibial fracture.
Choice A, wrapping sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice B, adjusting the clamps on the fixator frame, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice C, maintaining the affected extremity in a dependent position, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because headache is a common symptom of anemia.
Choice B is incorrect because bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a common symptom of anemia.
Instead, anemia can cause irregular heartbeats or a fast heartbeat.
Choice Dis incorrect because flushed skin color is not a common symptom of anemia.
Instead, anemia can cause pale or yellowish skin 1.
Choice Cis incorrect because heat intolerance is not a common symptom of anemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should institute bleeding precautions for the client.
Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin caused by broken capillaries, which can be a sign of low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and an increased risk of bleeding.
Bleeding precautions include measures such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding injections, and avoiding activities that could result in injury.
Choice A is incorrect because airborne precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases that are transmitted through the air, and are not necessary in this situation.
Choice B is incorrect because determining the client’s blood type is not necessary in this situation.
Choice D is incorrect because avoiding IV pain medication is not necessary in this situation; however, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding and bruising.
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