A nurse is providing care for a client who is 1-day postoperative following a below-the-knee amputation resulting from musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Discontinue the overhead trapeze.
Turn the client every 6 hr while in bed.
Remind the client that phantom limb pain does not need treatment.
Assist the client to a prone position every 3 hr.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Discontinue the overhead trapeze:
The overhead trapeze can be beneficial for the client to assist with repositioning and mobility, especially postoperatively. Removing it would hinder the client's ability to move independently and could increase the risk of complications from immobility.
B) Turn the client every 6 hr while in bed:
Turning the client every 6 hours is insufficient for preventing complications such as pressure ulcers. Standard care involves repositioning the client at least every 2 hours to maintain skin integrity and promote circulation.
C) Remind the client that phantom limb pain does not need treatment:
Phantom limb pain is a real and often distressing condition for many amputees. It requires appropriate treatment and management strategies to ensure the client's comfort and psychological well-being. Dismissing the pain can lead to increased distress and hinder recovery.
D) Assist the client to a prone position every 3 hr:
Positioning the client in a prone position regularly helps prevent contractures, particularly hip flexion contractures, which are common after lower limb amputations. This position can stretch the hip muscles and aid in maintaining proper alignment and mobility, making it a beneficial intervention in postoperative care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Expect optimum visual acuity to return in 4 to 6 weeks: While some improvement in vision can be noted soon after cataract surgery, optimal visual acuity typically returns within 1 to 2 months. It's important to set realistic expectations for recovery. Telling the patient to expect optimum visual acuity to return in 4 to 6 weeks provides a more accurate timeframe for complete visual recovery.
B) Notify the provider if new floaters persist for more than 3 days: The presence of new floaters can be a sign of complications such as retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage. However, patients are generally advised to notify their provider immediately if they notice any new floaters, flashes of light, or a sudden decrease in vision, rather than waiting for three days. Immediate notification can lead to prompt evaluation and treatment if necessary.
C) Take aspirin every 4 to 6 hr for mild discomfort: Aspirin is generally avoided postoperatively due to its blood-thinning properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Instead, non-aspirin pain relievers like acetaminophen are usually recommended to manage mild discomfort after cataract surgery, as they do not carry the same risk of bleeding complications.
D) Avoid lifting objects that weigh 9.07 kg (20 lb) or more: Patients are advised to avoid lifting heavy objects and engaging in strenuous activities after cataract surgery to prevent increased intraocular pressure, which can interfere with healing and potentially cause complications such as bleeding or dislocation of the intraocular lens. This instruction helps ensure the safety and proper healing of the surgical site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and elevated bicarbonate (HCO3). In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, which supports alkalosis, but the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L. The PaCO2 is slightly low, which is not typical for metabolic alkalosis, as it would usually show an elevated HCO3 with a compensatory respiratory alkalosis.
B) Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis would present with a low pH and an elevated PaCO2. In this case, the pH is high at 7.6, indicating alkalosis, and the PaCO2 is also low at 30 mm Hg, which is inconsistent with respiratory acidosis.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a high pH with a low PaCO2. Here, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the PaCO2 is decreased at 30 mm Hg, which fits the profile of respiratory alkalosis. The normal HCO3 level suggests that the bicarbonate is not compensating, supporting a primary respiratory alkalosis.
D) Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3. In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L, which does not align with metabolic acidosis. The PaCO2 is also low, which is not typical for metabolic acidosis, as it would usually have a normal or high PaCO2.
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