The nurse is caring for a patient who had a below-the-elbow amputation. Which activity should the nurse encourage the patient to perform during the post-operative period to promote muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb?
Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb
Performing active range of motion exercises
Keeping the residual limb immobile
Applying cold packs to the residual limb
The Correct Answer is B
Encouraging the patient to perform active range of motion exercises is important to promote muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb after a below-the-elbow amputation. Active exercises engage the muscles and joints, preventing stiffness and maintaining function.
a. Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb: Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb may be contraindicated, especially in the immediate post-operative period, as it can strain the healing tissues and lead to injury.
c. Keeping the residual limb immobile: Keeping the residual limb immobile can lead to stiffness, weakness, and contractures. Active range of motion exercises are essential to maintain mobility and function.
d. Applying cold packs to the residual limb: Cold packs may be used for pain relief or to reduce swelling in the immediate post-operative period, but they are not specifically aimed at promoting muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb. Active exercises are more appropriate for this purpose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Transmetatarsal amputation involves the surgical removal of the forefoot and toes while preserving the heel and ankle joint. It is commonly used for below-the-knee amputations, specifically for conditions that affect the toes and forefoot but spare the ankle joint.
a. Hip disarticulation: Hip disarticulation is a higher-level amputation that involves the removal of the entire lower limb at the hip joint. It is not commonly used for below-the-knee amputations.
c. Above-the-knee amputation: Above-the-knee amputation involves the removal of the entire lower limb above the knee joint. It is not used for below-the-knee amputations.
d. Syme amputation: Syme amputation involves the removal of the foot at the ankle joint while preserving the heel pad. It is used for specific conditions affecting the foot and ankle joint but is not a common choice for below-the-knee amputations.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The primary purpose of positioning the residual limb in a flexed position after a below-the-knee amputation is to prevent contractures. Contractures are abnormal shortening and tightening of muscles and tendons, leading to restricted joint movement. Maintaining the limb in a flexed position helps prevent contractures and ensures optimal prosthetic fitting and functional outcomes.
b. To promote venous return: While positioning the limb in a flexed position may have some impact on venous return, it is not the primary purpose of this positioning. Elevating the limb on a pillow is more effective for promoting venous return.
c. To reduce edema: Keeping the residual limb elevated on a pillow is the preferred method for reducing edema in the immediate post-operative period, not positioning it in a flexed position.
d. To facilitate wound healing: Facilitating wound healing is not the primary purpose of positioning the residual limb in a flexed position. Proper wound care, dressing changes, and monitoring for signs of infection are essential for wound healing.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.