An emergency department client is diagnosed with a hip dislocation. The client's family is relieved that the client has not suffered a hip fracture, but the nurse explains that this is still considered to be a medical emergency. What is the rationale for the nurse's statement?
The longer the joint is displaced, the more difficult it is to get it back in place.
Avascular necrosis may develop at the site if it is not promptly resolved.
The client's pain will increase until the joint is realigned.
Dislocation can become permanent if the process of bone remodeling begins.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The longer the joint is displaced, the more difficult it is to get it back in place:
This statement is correct. Prompt reduction of a dislocated joint is important because the longer the joint remains out of place, the more difficult it becomes to realign it. Delayed reduction can lead to complications and makes the process more challenging for healthcare providers.
B. Avascular necrosis may develop at the site if it is not promptly resolved:
Avascular necrosis is a condition where bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. While it is a potential complication of hip dislocation, it is not the immediate rationale for considering hip dislocation a medical emergency. The urgency primarily lies in the difficulty of reducing the dislocation and preventing further complications.
C. The client's pain will increase until the joint is realigned:
This statement is partially correct. While it is true that dislocated joints are extremely painful, the urgency in reducing the dislocation is not solely based on pain management. It is essential to prevent complications, restore joint function, and minimize long-term damage to the affected area.
D. Dislocation can become permanent if the process of bone remodeling begins:
This statement is accurate. If a dislocated joint is not promptly reduced, the surrounding tissues may undergo changes, and the process of bone remodeling can begin. This can lead to the dislocation becoming more difficult or even impossible to reduce, resulting in a permanent dislocation. Early intervention is essential to prevent this outcome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Right hip dislocation: In a hip dislocation, the head of the femur is forced out of the acetabulum, which is the socket in the pelvis. This can cause a noticeably shorter leg, hip deformity, and acute pain. Imaging might not show a fracture in the case of a dislocation.
B. Right hip contusion: A hip contusion is a bruise on the hip, usually caused by a direct blow or trauma. While it can cause pain and swelling, it typically does not result in a noticeably shorter leg or hip deformity.
C. Right hip strain: Hip strain refers to damage to the muscles or tendons around the hip joint due to overuse or sudden twisting movements. While it can cause pain, it does not typically lead to a noticeable leg shortening or hip deformity.
D. Right hip osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the hip joint. It leads to joint pain and stiffness but does not usually cause a noticeable leg shortening or acute deformity unless there are severe complications, which are not mentioned in the scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will reduce my intake of sodium." - This statement is correct. High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium excretion through the urine, which can weaken bones. Reducing sodium intake can help prevent osteoporosis.
B. "I will limit my intake of soft drinks." - This statement is correct. Soft drinks, especially cola beverages, contain phosphoric acid, which can leach calcium from bones, leading to decreased bone density. Limiting soft drink consumption is advisable for bone health.
C. "I will decrease my intake of caffeine." - This statement is correct. Excessive caffeine consumption can interfere with calcium absorption and increase calcium excretion. It is advisable to limit caffeine intake to prevent osteoporosis.
D. "I will reduce my intake of vitamin K-rich foods." - This statement is incorrect. Vitamin K is essential for bone health as it helps in bone mineralization and reduces the risk of fractures. Foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy green vegetables, are beneficial for bone health and should not be reduced unless there are specific medical reasons to do so.
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