The nurse is providing postoperative care for an adolescent who had an amputation of the left leg for osteosarcoma. The adolescent describes experiencing phantom limb pain. Which non pharmacological intervention should the nurse provide?
A Guide in moving the non affected limb to override the sensation being experienced.
B Reassure that this can be a normal postsurgical sensation.
C Affirm that a prosthetic with physical therapy will gradually improve the symptoms.
D Explain that the sensations of tingling and pain are not real.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Guide in moving the non-affected limb to override the sensation being experienced.
Encouraging movement of the non-affected limb may not effectively address phantom limb pain and could potentially exacerbate discomfort or distress.
B. Reassure that this can be a normal postsurgical sensation.
Phantom limb pain is a common phenomenon after amputation surgeries. Providing reassurance that this sensation is normal can help alleviate anxiety and provide comfort to the adolescent.
C. Affirm that a prosthetic with physical therapy will gradually improve the symptoms.
While a prosthetic limb and physical therapy can help in the long term, they may not immediately address the phantom limb pain experienced in the early postoperative period.
D. Explain that the sensations of tingling and pain are not real.
Invalidating the adolescent's experience of phantom limb pain by suggesting that the sensations are not real may worsen distress and anxiety. It's essential to acknowledge the client's experience and provide supportive care.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. 2+ pitting edema of the feet. While edema requires monitoring and may necessitate some adjustments in care, it does not directly impact the ability to provide a bed bath.
B. Pallor. Pallor indicates potential anemia or poor circulation but does not directly impact the provision of a bed bath.
C. Orthopnea. Orthopnea, difficulty breathing when lying flat, is critical to consider when planning a bed bath. The client may need to be positioned with the head elevated to facilitate breathing and ensure comfort during the bath.
D. Right-sided paralysis. Paralysis requires careful handling to prevent injury, but it is not as
immediately critical to the bathing process as orthopnea, which directly affects the client's ability to breathe comfortably.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Test the fluid on the dressing for glucose.
This is the correct action. Clear fluid on a dressing after lumbar spinal surgery could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Testing the fluid for glucose is essential because CSF contains glucose, whereas normal wound drainage does not. A positive glucose test would confirm the presence of CSF, indicating a potential complication that requires immediate medical attention.
B. Mark the drainage area with a pen and continue to monitor.
While monitoring the size of the drainage area can be useful, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse should first determine whether the clear fluid is CSF.
C. Change the dressing using a compression bandage.
Changing the dressing might be necessary, but using a compression bandage without first identifying the nature of the fluid could be inappropriate and potentially harmful if the fluid is CSF.
D. Document the findings in the electronic medical record.
Documentation is important, but it is not the immediate action. The nurse needs to identify the nature of the fluid first.
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