The nurse is caring for a patient with haemophilia A who is experiencing hemarthrosis of the knee. Which intervention will the nurse perform?
Apply a cold pack to the affected area.
Administer ibuprofen for pain.
Perform range-of-motion exercises.
Place the leg in a dependent position.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Applying a cold pack to the affected area is the most appropriate intervention for managing hemarthrosis (bleeding into the joint) in a patient with haemophilia A. Cold therapy helps reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation by constricting blood vessels, which can slow down bleeding. This intervention also provides comfort to the patient and helps manage the acute symptoms of hemarthrosis effectively.
Choice B reason: Administering ibuprofen for pain is not recommended for patients with haemophilia A because ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding by inhibiting platelet function. Instead, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often preferred for pain management in these patients as it does not have the same blood-thinning effects.
Choice C reason: Performing range-of-motion exercises is not appropriate during the acute phase of hemarthrosis. Movement and exercise can exacerbate bleeding and increase pain. It is essential to allow the joint to rest and stabilize before considering gentle range-of-motion exercises during the recovery phase. Immediate management should focus on controlling bleeding and reducing inflammation.
Choice D reason: Placing the leg in a dependent position (lower than the heart) is not recommended for managing hemarthrosis. Elevating the affected limb is a better approach as it helps reduce swelling and pain by promoting venous return and minimizing blood flow to the affected area. The dependent position can increase blood flow to the joint, potentially worsening the bleeding and swelling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Discontinuing the indwelling catheter is not appropriate without first assessing the cause of the low urine output.
Choice B reason: Increasing the intravenous fluid rate might be considered if the patient is dehydrated, but first, the nurse should ensure that the low urine output is not due to a mechanical issue with the catheter.
Choice C reason: Checking the catheter for patency is the most immediate and appropriate action. There could be a blockage or kink in the catheter, which might explain the low urine output.
Choice D reason: Documenting the finding is important, but it should be done after addressing the immediate concern of low urine output and confirming that the catheter is functioning properly.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Preparing to hang hypotonic fluids is not the immediate priority in this situation. While hydration is important for managing sickle cell anaemia, the infant's respiratory distress and low oxygen saturation levels indicate that addressing oxygenation should be the first step. Hypotonic fluids may be considered after stabilizing the patient's breathing and oxygen levels.
Choice B reason: Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is the priority intervention given the infant's symptoms. The infant has increased work of breathing, a fever, coarse crackles upon auscultation, and low oxygen saturation (89%). Providing supplemental oxygen is crucial to improve oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further complications and stabilize the patient's condition.
Choice C reason: Providing patient education on acute chest syndrome is important, but it is not the immediate priority in this emergency situation. Education can be given once the infant's acute symptoms are managed and stabilized. The focus should be on addressing the critical needs first, such as oxygenation and respiratory support.
Choice D reason: Giving a dose of morphine sulphate may help manage pain, but it is not the first priority in this scenario. The infant's respiratory status and oxygenation levels are more critical and require immediate attention. Pain management can be addressed after ensuring the infant's breathing and oxygen levels are stabilized.
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