A nurse is teaching a client who has atrial fibrillation and is to start taking dabigatran.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is choice B. Applying an orthotic to the client’s foot.

An orthotic is a device that supports or corrects the function of a body part.

In this case, an orthotic can help prevent foot drop, which is a common contracture deformity in immobile patients.

Foot drop occurs when the muscles that lift the foot become weak or paralyzed, causing the foot to hang down at the ankle. An orthotic can keep the foot in a neutral position and prevent shortening of the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

Choice A is wrong because a trochanter wedge is used to prevent external rotation of the hip, not contracture. A trochanter wedge is a triangular-shaped pillow that is placed between the legs to keep them parallel and aligned.

Choice C is wrong because a towel roll under the neck is used to maintain proper cervical alignment, not contracture. A towel roll can prevent hyperextension of the neck and support the natural curve of the spine.

Choice D is wrong because a pillow under the knees can actually cause contracture of the knee joint by keeping it in a flexed position. A pillow under the knees can also reduce blood flow to the lower extremities and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

Contracture is a permanent tightening of the muscles, tendons, skin, and surrounding tissues that causes the joints to shorten and stiffen.

Contracture can limit the range of motion and function of the affected body part. Contracture can be caused by inactivity, scarring, or diseases that affect the muscles or nerves. Prevention of contractures requires early diagnosis and initiation of physical medicine approaches such as passive range of motion exercises and splinting before contractures are present or while contractures are mild.

Answer is… C and F indicate improvement.

A The client has gained 1.8 kg (4 lb). BMI is 18.9. This is not an improvement because the client’s BMI is still below the normal range of 18.5 to 24.9 The client may have malnutrition or other health problems that affect their weight.

B The clients adult child prepares two meals per day for the client. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still depends on others for their basic needs and may have difficulty with self-care.

C The clients clothing is clean and appropriate for the weather. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has good hygiene and can dress themselves appropriately.

D The client receives three baths per week from a home care aide. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still needs assistance with bathing and may have limited mobility or pain.

E The client reports frequent toothaches and lack of dental care. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client has poor oral health and may have infections or other complications.

F The client makes eye contact and smiles when speaking. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has positive mood and social interaction.

: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/distal-radius-fracture- wrist-fracture : https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm.