A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. The nurse is preparing to change the client's surgical dressing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to demonstrate sensitivity to age-related changes?
Ask the client to help with the dressing change
Wait for the client to approach the nurse for assistance
Use paper tape for securing the new dressing
Apply the dressing loosely over the incision
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Asking the client to assist with a surgical dressing change following a total hip arthroplasty may be inappropriate due to the client's postoperative physical limitations and hip precautions. While fostering independence is generally positive, it does not specifically address the physiological age-related changes of the integumentary system. The primary concern in this scenario is protecting the integrity of the client's fragile skin during adhesive removal.
B. Waiting for a client to request assistance for a scheduled postoperative dressing change is a deviation from the standard plan of care and proactive nursing management. Postoperative wound care is a scheduled clinical priority to monitor for infection and promote healing. This action does not demonstrate sensitivity to age-related physiological changes and could potentially lead to delayed detection of surgical site complications or wound dehiscence.
C. Using paper tape is the most appropriate action because older adults possess a thinner stratum corneum and diminished cohesion between the dermis and epidermis. Traditional plastic or silk adhesives can cause epidermal stripping and skin tears upon removal due to their high tackiness. Paper tape provides sufficient securement for the surgical dressing while minimizing the risk of mechanical injury to the sensitive, translucent skin of an elderly patient.
D. Applying a dressing loosely over a fresh surgical incision is contraindicated as it fails to provide an adequate microbial barrier and does not support wound healing. A loose dressing may shift, causing friction against the incision line or allowing contaminants to reach the surgical site. To demonstrate age-related sensitivity, the nurse must ensure the dressing is secure while using materials that are gentle on the surrounding atrophic skin.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
b. Keep suction equipment at the client's bedside.
The nurse should plan to include keeping suction equipment at the client's bedside as an intervention for a client with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease can cause dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and an increased risk of aspiration. Having suction equipment readily available allows for prompt intervention in case of choking or aspiration episodes, ensuring the client's safety.
Explanation for the other options:
a. Restrict the client's fluid intake: Restricting the client's fluid intake is not typically indicated in the care of a client with Parkinson's disease. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and well-being. However, specific fluid restrictions may be necessary in certain situations, such as if the client has coexisting conditions like heart failure or kidney disease, which should be assessed and determined by the healthcare provider.
c. Instruct the client to look down when ambulating: In Parkinson's disease, individuals often experience a forward-flexed posture and a shuffling gait. Instructing the client to look down when ambulating is not an appropriate intervention. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to maintain an upright posture, take smaller steps, and focus on taking deliberate and controlled movements to promote stability and reduce the risk of falls.
d. Position the client supine after eating: Positioning the client supine after eating is not recommended for a client with Parkinson's disease. This position can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may promote reflux and regurgitation of stomach contents. Instead, the nurse should advise the client to maintain an upright position, such as sitting in a chair or using a recliner with appropriate head support, to aid digestion and reduce the risk of aspiration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should include the statement that only health care staff providing care will see the client's medical record when reinforcing teaching about confidentiality. This statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of the client's personal health information.
Explanation for the other options:
a. "Your nurse will provide information about the risks and benefits of surgical procedures." While it is important for the nurse to provide information about surgical procedures, this statement does not specifically address confidentiality.
c. "The provider must grant you access to your personal health information." This statement is related to the client's rights regarding access to their personal health information. While it is important to educate clients about their rights, it is not specifically focused on confidentiality.
d. "You have to authorize our providers to prescribe treatments for your condition." This statement is related to obtaining the client's consent for treatment, which is important but not directly addressing confidentiality.
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