The nurse is caring for a patient who had an above-the-knee amputation (AKA) five days ago.
The nurse notices a new foul odor coming from the incision, which is erythematous, tender, and warm to the touch. What is the priority nursing action in this situation?
Administer the prescribed antibiotic early.
Apply a sterile dressing to the area.
Report the finding to the care provider.
Obtain a culture of the incision.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Administering the prescribed antibiotic early might not be the most immediate action. While antibiotics can help treat an infection, it’s crucial to first confirm the presence of an infection before starting antibiotic therapy.
Choice B rationale
Applying a sterile dressing to the area is important, but it’s not the priority nursing action. Dressings help protect the wound from further contamination, but they do not address the underlying issue of a potential infection.
Choice C rationale
Reporting the finding to the care provider is the priority nursing action. The symptoms described - a new foul odor coming from the incision, which is erythematous, tender, and warm to the touch - suggest a possible infection. Immediate reporting allows for prompt evaluation and treatment, which is crucial in preventing further complications.
Choice D rationale
Obtaining a culture of the incision might be necessary to identify the specific causative agent of the infection, but it’s not the priority action. It’s more important to first report the findings to the care provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The Trendelenburg position, with the stump supported on three pillows, is not typically recommended following a below-the-knee amputation. This position could increase the risk of contractures.
Choice B rationale
Side lying with the amputated leg flexed is not typically recommended following a below-the- knee amputation. This position could increase the risk of contractures.
Choice C rationale
Lying prone for 24 hours is not typically recommended following a below-the-knee amputation. While some prone positioning may be beneficial to prevent hip flexion contractures, it should not be the only position used.
Choice D rationale
The supine position, with the stump flat on the bed, is often recommended following a below- the-knee amputation. This position helps to prevent contractures and promotes healing.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Increasing the nighttime insulin glargine dose may exacerbate the Somogyi effect, a phenomenon where the blood sugar level drops too low overnight, causing a rebound high blood sugar level in the morning.
Choice B rationale
Consuming a snack at bedtime can help prevent the blood sugar level from dropping too low overnight, thus preventing the Somogyi effect.
Choice C rationale
Checking the morning cortisol level is not directly related to managing the Somogyi effect.
Choice D rationale
Checking the glucose level at 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. can help identify the Somogyi effect, but it does not prevent it.
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