What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching for a patient with a newly applied cast?
Encouraging the patient to bear full weight on the cast immediately
Instructing the patient to elevate the casted limb above the heart
Advising the patient to use a heating pad on the cast to relieve discomfort
Educating the patient about signs of neurovascular compromise
The Correct Answer is D
: Educating the patient about signs of neurovascular compromise, such as changes in sensation, color, or temperature of the limb, is essential to ensure early detection of potential complications and timely intervention.
a. Encouraging the patient to bear full weight on the cast immediately is not recommended, as weight-bearing should follow the healthcare provider's instructions, which may involve partial weight-bearing initially.
b. Instructing the patient to elevate the casted limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but may not be the primary focus of discharge teaching for a newly applied cast.
c. Advising the patient to use a heating pad on the cast to relieve discomfort is not recommended, as excessive heat can damage the cast and increase the risk of skin irritation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hypertrophic nonunion occurs when there is excessive callus formation at the fracture site, but the bone ends fail to unite. This can lead to persistent pain and limited function.
a. Nonunion: Nonunion occurs when the fractured bone fails to heal and fuse together, but it does not involve excessive callus formation.
b. Malunion: Malunion refers to a fracture that heals in an incorrect position or alignment, and it is not directly related to excessive callus formation.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal, and it is not specifically characterized by excessive callus formation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Severe pain, pallor (pale skin color), and loss of pulses distal to the fracture are concerning signs of compartment syndrome, a serious complication that requires immediate medical intervention.
a. Bruising and discoloration at the fracture site: Bruising and discoloration are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site but are not specific to compartment syndrome.
b. Mild pain and swelling in the affected limb: Mild pain and swelling are expected with a fracture but do not raise immediate concerns for compartment syndrome.
c. Prolonged capillary refill distal to the fracture: Prolonged capillary refill time may indicate reduced blood flow but is not as concerning as the combination of severe pain, pallor, and loss of pulses seen in compartment syndrome.
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