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.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Peripheral vascular disease, which involves decreased blood flow to the extremities, is a common indication for amputation. In severe cases, where blood flow cannot be restored, amputation may be necessary to prevent further complications.
a. Chronic low back pain: Chronic low back pain is not an indication for amputation. It is usually managed through conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
b. Osteoarthritis of the knee: Osteoarthritis of the knee may cause pain and mobility issues, but it does not typically lead to amputation. Treatment for osteoarthritis includes pain management, physical therapy, and, in some cases, joint replacement surgery.
d. Minor soft tissue injury: Minor soft tissue injuries do not require amputation. They are usually treated with wound care, rest, and possibly antibiotics if there is an infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A non-healing surgical wound is a significant complication of amputation that may require revision surgery. Revision surgery involves re-intervention on the surgical site to address wound healing issues and promote better outcomes.
a. Phantom limb sensation: Phantom limb sensation is a common experience after amputation but does not typically require revision surgery. It is a neurological phenomenon related to the brain's perception of the missing limb.
b. Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers: Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers can occur around the residual limb due to pressure and friction from the prosthetic device. While they require attention and management, they may not always necessitate revision surgery.
c. Infection at the surgical site: Infection at the surgical site is a serious complication, but it is typically managed with appropriate antimicrobial therapy and wound care. In some cases, infection may lead to revision surgery, but it is not an automatic indication.
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