The nurse turns a 2-day postoperative patient with a right total hip replacement using pillows between the legs. The nurse later returns and finds the patient lying supine with legs crossed. Which of the following should the nurse immediately observe to determine whether a complication has developed?
The right leg for shortening
The left leg for internal rotation
The left leg for loss of function
The right knee for crepitation
The Correct Answer is A
Correct answer: A
A. The right leg for shortening: This is the most critical observation because crossing the legs after a hip replacement can cause hip dislocation. A shortened leg can be a sign of dislocation, which is a serious complication that requires immediate attention.
B. The left leg for internal rotation: Internal rotation is more of a concern for the operated leg (the right leg), not the left leg, in this context.
C. The left leg for loss of function: This is less relevant unless there is concern about a complication in the left leg, which is not directly related to the issue of crossing legs post-surgery.
D. The right knee for crepitation: Crepitation refers to a crackling sound and is more associated with joint issues rather than an indicator of hip dislocation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Keep affected body areas covered at all times: While keeping warm can help prevent attacks, it is not practical or necessary to cover the areas all the time, especially in warmer environments.
B. Avoid stimulation that causes vasoconstriction: Raynaud disease is triggered by factors that cause vasoconstriction, such as exposure to cold or stress. Avoiding these triggers is key to preventing attacks.
C. Get plenty of outdoor exercise all year: Exercise is beneficial for general health but exposure to cold during outdoor activities can trigger Raynaud's attacks, especially in cold weather.
D. Take vasopressors to prevent exacerbation of symptoms: Vasopressors cause vasoconstriction and would likely worsen Raynaud's symptoms rather than preventing them.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reduce dietary purines.: This is more relevant for patients with gout, not osteoarthritis. Purine reduction helps control uric acid levels.
B. Begin a jogging program.: High-impact exercises like jogging can exacerbate knee pain and accelerate joint degeneration in osteoarthritis.
C. Maintain ideal body weight.: Maintaining an ideal body weight reduces stress on the knees and helps preserve joint function and delay the progression of osteoarthritis.
D. Maintain normal uric acid levels.: Uric acid levels are related to gout, not osteoarthritis. Maintaining normal levels does not directly affect osteoarthritis.
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