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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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
: Amputation is the surgical removal of a limb or body part due to injury, disease, or medical necessity. It involves cutting through bones, muscles, and other tissues to remove the affected limb or body part.
a. A surgical procedure to repair damaged bones and tissues: This statement is incorrect. Amputation involves the removal of a limb or body part rather than repairing damaged bones and tissues.
c. A procedure to treat joint diseases and improve mobility: While amputation may improve mobility in certain cases, it is not primarily used to treat joint diseases. Joint diseases are usually managed through other treatment modalities.
d. The transplantation of a healthy limb from one person to another: This statement is incorrect. Amputation does not involve the transplantation of a healthy limb from one person to another. It is the removal of an affected limb or body part from the same individual.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The primary purpose of a follow-up visit for a patient who underwent amputation is to adjust the prosthetic fitting and alignment. Prosthetic devices need to be customized and aligned correctly to ensure the patient's optimal mobility and function.
a. To assess for surgical wound dehiscence: While wound assessment is essential, it is not the primary purpose of a follow-up visit. Wound dehiscence, if present, would typically be detected earlier and addressed during the immediate post-operative period.
b. To provide emotional support and counseling: Emotional support and counseling are essential aspects of care for a patient who underwent amputation, but they are not the primary purpose of a follow-up visit, which focuses on the prosthetic fitting and functional outcomes.
d. To initiate post-operative physical therapy: Post-operative physical therapy may be initiated during the rehabilitation process, but it is not typically the primary purpose of a follow-up visit. Initial physical therapy sessions may begin earlier, often shortly after the amputation surgery.
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