The nurse is caring for a patient who is immobile and is at risk for skin impairment. The plan of care includes turning the patient. Which is the best method for repositioning the patient?
Slide the patient into the new position
Place the patient in a 30 degree supine position.
utilize a transfer device to lift the patient.
Elevate the head of the bed 45 degrees
The Correct Answer is C
A) Slide the patient into the new position: Sliding a patient when repositioning can create shear forces on the skin, which may contribute to skin damage. Shearing can occur when the skin sticks to the surface while the underlying tissues move, leading to increased risk of pressure ulcers. Therefore, sliding is not considered the most effective or safest way to reposition a patient at risk for skin impairment.
B) Place the patient in a 30-degree supine position: Placing the patient in a 30-degree supine position is a good method for reducing pressure on bony prominences and minimizing the risk of pressure injuries. However, while this position is helpful for preventing skin breakdown, it does not address the method of repositioning, which is what is being asked in this question.
C) Utilize a transfer device to lift the patient: Using a transfer device, such as a lift or slide sheet, to lift the patient is the best method for repositioning. This technique helps to reduce friction and shear forces on the skin, providing a safer and more effective way to move the patient without causing damage. Transfer devices also allow for a smoother repositioning, minimizing the risk of skin impairment.
D) Elevate the head of the bed 45 degrees: Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees can increase the risk of pressure injuries, especially if the patient is immobile and cannot relieve pressure themselves. This position can also contribute to shear forces as the patient slides downward. It may be appropriate in certain clinical situations, but it does not directly address the method of repositioning.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) A nurse who works for an insurance company and collects urine samples from clients who have HIV: While this nurse may interact with clients who have HIV, collecting urine samples does not typically pose a significant risk for HIV transmission. HIV is not transmitted through urine, and the nurse would not be in direct contact with blood or bodily fluids that present a risk.
B) A personal trainer who works with a client who has HIV: A personal trainer is at low risk for contracting HIV while working with a client who has the virus, provided there is no direct exposure to blood or open wounds. HIV is transmitted through specific bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and not through casual contact or physical activity like exercise.
C) A phlebotomist who collects blood from clients who have HIV: A phlebotomist is at the greatest risk of contracting HIV because they handle blood directly. If proper precautions, such as gloves and safe needle handling, are not followed, there is an increased risk of exposure to HIV-infected blood. Occupational exposure to blood is one of the most significant routes of HIV transmission in healthcare settings.
D) An occupational therapist who works with a client who has HIV: An occupational therapist working with a client who has HIV is at a low risk of contracting HIV, provided the therapist does not come into direct contact with blood or other potentially infectious bodily fluids. Occupational therapy generally involves helping clients with physical or cognitive tasks and does not typically present a risk for HIV transmission unless there is a breach in infection control practices.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Complete an incident report: While it is essential to complete an incident report, this is not the first action to take. Completing the report documents the event but should come after immediate steps are taken to prevent further complications and ensure the nurse's safety. The priority is to first address the injury and ensure the site is properly cleaned.
B) Request the risk manager obtain consent for HIV testing from the client: Requesting consent for HIV testing from the client is important, but it is not the first priority. The immediate action should focus on treating the injury and reducing the risk of infection. Once the injury is addressed, the next step is to assess the potential for exposure and initiate testing or other preventive measures.
C) Consent to postexposure treatment with antiretroviral medications: Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) with antiretroviral medications is an important step after a needle-stick injury, especially if the source patient has an unknown HIV status or is known to be HIV-positive. However, this step should come after immediate wound care and before initiating any further testing or preventive treatments.
D) Wash the site of injury with soap and water: The first and most crucial step after a needle-stick injury is to immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. This action helps reduce the risk of infection by removing any potential contaminants from the needle or the environment. After cleaning the wound, the nurse should then proceed with further steps, such as reporting the incident, obtaining consent for HIV testing, and considering PEP if indicated.
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.