A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has an external fixation device in place to treat an open fracture of the tibia and fibula. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
Apply 4.5 kg (10 lb) traction weight to the distal end of the fixator.
Monitor the neurovascular status of the client's affected limb every 8 hr.
Administer pain medication 30 min prior to pin care.
Adjust the clamps on the device's frame daily.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale: Applying traction weight to the external fixator is not recommended, as it can cause excessive stress on the pins and wires, leading to complications such as infection, loosening, or breakage1. Traction is usually applied to skeletal pins that are inserted into the bone without an external frame2.
Choice B rationale: Monitoring the neurovascular status of the affected limb is important, but every 8 hours is not frequent enough. The nurse should perform neurovascular checks every 2 to 4 hours for the first 24 hours, then every 4 to 8 hours, according to the facility policy3. This is to assess for signs of nerve damage, compartment syndrome, or impaired circulation, which can result from the injury or the device.
Choice C rationale: Administering pain medication 30 min prior to pin care is a correct intervention, as it can help reduce the discomfort and anxiety associated with the procedure. Pin care involves cleaning the pin sites with an antiseptic solution and applying sterile dressings to prevent infection and promote healing. The frequency and technique of pin care may vary depending on the type of device, the condition of the wound, and the facility protocol.
Choice D rationale: Adjusting the clamps on the device’s frame daily is not a nursing intervention, as it can alter the alignment and stability of the fracture. The clamps should be tightened only by the orthopedic surgeon or a trained technician, and only when necessary. The nurse should inspect the device for any loose or broken parts and report any problems to the surgeon.
So, the correct answer is Choice C, after analysing all choices.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, participate in reminiscence therapy with the client. This is an effective intervention for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It involves encouraging the client to discuss past experiences and events. It has been shown to improve mood, decrease agitation, and increase communication skills. The reminiscence therapy should be individualized and tailored to the client's interests and abilities.
- Raising the four side rails on the client's bed is not the correct answer because this could cause harm to the client by restricting their mobility and independence.
- Alternating the client's daily routine is not the correct answer because individuals with Alzheimer's disease benefit from a consistent routine, which helps them to feel more secure and less anxious.
- Keeping the lights dimmed is not the correct answer because it can be disorienting and confusing for clients with Alzheimer's disease, who need adequate lighting to distinguish their surroundings.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: Elevate the head of the client's bed for 1 hr after the feeding. This is because elevating the head of the client's bed to at least 30 degrees can help prevent aspiration and gastric reflux. Choice B is incorrect because administering the feeding solution at a cold temperature can cause discomfort and diarrhea. Choice C is incorrect because rotating the jejunostomy tube once per day can cause irritation and trauma to the stoma site. Choice D is incorrect because flushing the tube with 90 mL of sterile water before and after the feeding is not necessary as long as the tube is adequately flushed before and after each feeding.
Explanation for why the other choices are not answers: B – Administering the feeding solution at a cold temperature can cause discomfort and diarrhea, so it should not be done. C – Rotating the jejunostomy tube once per day can cause irritation and trauma to the stoma site, so this is not the correct action. D – Flushing the tube with 90 mL of sterile water before and after the feeding is unnecessary to do as long as the tube is adequately flushed before and after each feeding. Thus, this is not the correct answer.
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