What is the appropriate method of positioning the residual limb in the post-operative period for a patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation?
Keep the residual limb in a dependent position
Maintain the residual limb in a flexed position
Elevate the residual limb on a pillow
Keep the residual limb in a neutral, flat position
The Correct Answer is C
The appropriate method of positioning the residual limb in the post-operative period for a patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation is to elevate the residual limb on a pillow. Elevating the limb helps reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which can enhance healing and prevent complications.
a. Keep the residual limb in a dependent position: Keeping the residual limb in a dependent position (hanging down) can impede venous return and increase swelling. It is not the recommended position for post-operative care.
b. Maintain the residual limb in a flexed position: Keeping the residual limb in a flexed position may increase pressure on the surgical site and hinder proper wound healing. A flexed position is not the recommended post-operative positioning for the residual limb.
d. Keep the residual limb in a neutral, flat position: While keeping the residual limb in a neutral, flat position is generally recommended for some post-operative care, elevating the limb on a pillow is preferred in the immediate post-operative period for below-the-knee amputation to reduce swelling and promote healing.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Meticulous monitoring of wound drainage is important in the post-operative care of a patient who underwent amputation to assess for signs of infection. Excessive drainage, changes in color or odor, or the presence of pus may indicate an infection at the surgical site, and prompt intervention is essential to prevent complications.
b. To determine the need for wound irrigation: While wound irrigation may be part of wound care, monitoring wound drainage is primarily to assess for signs of infection, not to determine the need for wound irrigation.
c. To prevent pressure ulcers and skin breakdown: Monitoring wound drainage is not directly related to preventing pressure ulcers and skin breakdown. Preventing pressure ulcers involves measures such as repositioning and proper support surfaces.
d. To evaluate the effectiveness of pain management: Monitoring wound drainage does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of pain management. Pain management is assessed separately through communication with the patient and observation of their pain levels and response to interventions.
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.
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