The nurse is providing education to a patient who will undergo an upper extremity amputation. What should the nurse emphasize as the priority nursing intervention in the immediate post-operative period?
Managing phantom limb pain
Ensuring proper prosthetic fitting
Elevating the residual limb on a pillow
Assessing the surgical incision for infection
The Correct Answer is D
The priority nursing intervention in the immediate post-operative period after an upper extremity amputation is to assess the surgical incision for infection. Early detection of signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage, is crucial to prevent complications and promote healing.
a. Managing phantom limb pain: While managing phantom limb pain is important, it may not be the priority nursing intervention immediately after the surgery. Assessing the surgical incision for infection and monitoring for any complications take precedence.
b. Ensuring proper prosthetic fitting: Prosthetic fitting is essential for functional outcomes, but it may not be the priority in the immediate post-operative period. It is addressed during the rehabilitation phase.
c. Elevating the residual limb on a pillow: Elevating the residual limb on a pillow is typically recommended for lower extremity amputations to reduce edema and promote venous return, not for upper extremity amputations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The decision for amputation is complex and takes into account the patient's overall health status, goals, and preferences. Factors such as the extent of the disease or injury, the potential for rehabilitation, and the impact on the patient's quality of life are considered when determining the most appropriate treatment plan.
a. Patient's age and gender: While age and gender may be factors in the decision-making process, they are not the primary consideration for amputation. Each patient's case is evaluated individually based on their specific circumstances.
b. Healthcare provider's preference: The healthcare provider's preference alone does not dictate the decision for amputation. The decision should be made collaboratively between the patient, the healthcare team, and other specialists as needed.
d. Availability of advanced medical technology: While medical technology can play a role in the treatment and rehabilitation of amputees, it is not the primary consideration in the decision for amputation. The decision is primarily based on the patient's health and overall well-being.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The primary goal of rehabilitation after amputation is to help the patient achieve the highest level of mobility and independence possible with the use of assistive devices and prosthetics. While rehabilitation can improve function and quality of life, it may not fully restore the limb to its pre-amputation function.
a. To restore the limb to its pre-amputation function: While rehabilitation aims to improve function, restoring the limb to its pre-amputation function is not always feasible. Amputation involves the permanent removal of a limb or body part, and some limitations may persist.
b. To minimize the use of assistive devices: While rehabilitation may help the patient adapt to using assistive devices, the goal is not necessarily to minimize their use. Assistive devices can greatly improve mobility and independence for amputees.
d. To eliminate all residual pain and discomfort: While rehabilitation can help manage pain and discomfort, eliminating all residual pain is not always achievable. The goal is to optimize the patient's function and well-being while addressing pain and discomfort as effectively as possible.
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.