The nurse is caring for a patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation. What is the primary purpose of positioning the residual limb in a flexed position?
To prevent contractures
To promote venous return
To reduce edema
To facilitate wound healing
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Circulation assessment of the affected limb is essential for a patient scheduled for amputation. This assessment helps identify any vascular issues or compromised blood flow to the limb, which can impact wound healing and increase the risk of post-operative complications. It is crucial to assess circulation to ensure the patient's safety during and after the amputation procedure.
a. Blood pressure measurement: While blood pressure measurement is a routine assessment, it is not specific to amputation and not directly related to preventing pre-operative complications.
b. Assessment of respiratory rate: Respiratory rate assessment is important for general health assessment, but it is not directly related to preventing complications specifically related to amputation.
d. Height and weight measurement: Height and weight measurement are important for general health assessment, but they are not directly related to preventing complications specifically related to amputation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The primary goal of wound care in the post-operative period for a patient who underwent amputation is to promote tissue regeneration and wound healing. Proper wound care techniques, including dressing changes, are essential to create an optimal environment for healing and prevent infection.
a. Preventing pressure ulcers and skin breakdown: While pressure ulcers and skin breakdown are important considerations in post-operative care, they are not the primary goal of wound care specifically for amputation.
c. Removing all dressings to allow for air exposure: Dressings are typically used to protect the surgical site and promote healing by creating a moist wound environment. Removing all dressings for air exposure is not recommended as it can impede wound healing.
d. Applying topical antibiotics to the surgical site: While topical antibiotics may be used if there is an infection or as directed by the healthcare provider, applying them to the surgical site without proper indication can lead to antibiotic resistance and is not the primary goal of wound care for amputation.
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