The nurse is caring for a client who had a left total hip replacement three days ago. The client suddenly has severe left hip pain and the nurse notes a shortening of the left lower extremity. What complication does the nurse suspect?
The hip has dislocated
The incision has dehisced
There is bleeding at the operative site
An infection has developed suddenly
The Correct Answer is A
A. A sudden onset of severe hip pain with observable shortening and external rotation of the affected extremity is a hallmark sign of hip dislocation, a serious complication after hip replacement surgery. This requires immediate intervention to prevent neurovascular damage.
B. Incision dehiscence involves the surgical wound opening but does not typically cause leg shortening or severe sudden hip pain.
C. Bleeding at the operative site may lead to swelling, bruising, or decreased hemoglobin, but it does not cause limb shortening or abrupt severe pain localized to the hip joint.
D. Infection usually develops gradually with fever, redness, warmth, or drainage at the surgical site, not a sudden severe pain with extremity shortening.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A Monospot test is used to detect infectious mononucleosis, which is unrelated to chronic ear infections.
B. MRI is generally reserved for evaluating structural abnormalities, tumors, or complications, not routine chronic otitis media.
C. Lumbar puncture is used to diagnose central nervous system infections or conditions like meningitis, not ear infections.
D. Chronic otitis media can lead to hearing loss or speech delays. An audiology consult is appropriate to assess the child’s hearing and determine if further intervention, such as hearing aids or surgical options, is needed.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Individuals with a small body frame and those of female biologic sex are at higher risk for osteoporosis. Women are particularly vulnerable after menopause due to decreased estrogen, which accelerates bone loss.
B. Prolonged use of corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), not ibuprofen, is a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. NSAIDs like ibuprofen do not typically contribute to bone density loss.
C. Male sex is generally protective compared to female sex, and diabetes is not considered a primary risk factor. While nutrition does play a role, high protein intake does not directly cause osteoporosis; instead, low calcium and vitamin D intake are more concerning.
D. Low estrogen levels (not elevated) contribute to osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women. Increased body mass can actually provide some protective effect on bone density due to higher weight-bearing stress on bones.
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