A patient sustains a closed femur fracture of the right tibia and is placed in a long leg plaster cast, which is still damp. Which of the following methods should the nurse use to move the cast to prevent complications?
Use your palms to move the cast.
Do not move the cast until it is dry.
Have the patient reposition their own leg.
Use your fingertips to grasp the cast.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Use your palms to move the cast. Using the palms prevents indentations that can cause pressure points and potential injury to the patient.
B. Do not move the cast until it is dry. The cast may need to be moved for various reasons, and waiting until it is completely dry may not be practical or safe.
C. Have the patient reposition their own leg. The patient should not move the leg to prevent potential damage or misalignment.
D. Use your fingertips to grasp the cast. Using fingertips can create pressure points and indentations in the still-damp plaster, potentially causing skin breakdown or pressure sores.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism syndrome can occur after fractures, particularly long bone fractures, but it typically presents with symptoms such as respiratory distress, petechiae, and neurological symptoms rather than severe pain and tingling in the affected extremity.
B. Osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone, is characterized by localized pain, swelling, and fever but does not usually present immediately with severe pain and tingling following a fracture.
C. Pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs and presents with chest pain, shortness of breath, and possibly coughing up blood, not localized extremity pain and tingling.
D. Acute compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome is a serious condition that involves increased pressure within a muscle compartment. It can lead to severe pain, tingling, and decreased blood flow, which is consistent with the symptoms described.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Internal rotation. Internal rotation can lead to dislocation of the hip prosthesis and should be avoided.
B. External rotation. External rotation is also not recommended as it can strain the hip joint and lead to dislocation.
C. Adduction. Adduction (bringing the leg toward the midline) increases the risk of hip dislocation.
D. Abduction Correct. Abduction (moving the leg away from the midline) helps prevent dislocation by keeping the prosthesis in a stable position.
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