Which assessment finding indicates a possible complication of a below-the-knee amputation?
Increased swelling and bruising of the residual limb
Mild tenderness and discomfort at the surgical site
Gradual decrease in phantom limb pain over time
Resumption of normal daily activities with a prosthetic limb
The Correct Answer is A
Increased swelling and bruising of the residual limb after a below-the-knee amputation may indicate a possible complication such as hematoma formation or poor wound healing. It requires further assessment and intervention by the healthcare team.
b. Mild tenderness and discomfort at the surgical site: Mild tenderness and discomfort are common after surgery and may be expected in the post-operative period. As long as the pain is manageable and not worsening, it is not necessarily an indication of a significant complication.
c. Gradual decrease in phantom limb pain over time: Phantom limb pain may gradually decrease over time as the nerve endings adapt to the amputation, and the brain's perception of the missing limb changes. This finding is a normal part of the post-amputation process and is not typically a complication.
d. Resumption of normal daily activities with a prosthetic limb: Resuming normal daily activities with a prosthetic limb is a positive outcome and a sign of successful rehabilitation and adaptation to the prosthesis. It is not indicative of a complication.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A non-healing surgical wound is a significant complication of amputation that may require revision surgery. Revision surgery involves re-intervention on the surgical site to address wound healing issues and promote better outcomes.
a. Phantom limb sensation: Phantom limb sensation is a common experience after amputation but does not typically require revision surgery. It is a neurological phenomenon related to the brain's perception of the missing limb.
b. Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers: Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers can occur around the residual limb due to pressure and friction from the prosthetic device. While they require attention and management, they may not always necessitate revision surgery.
c. Infection at the surgical site: Infection at the surgical site is a serious complication, but it is typically managed with appropriate antimicrobial therapy and wound care. In some cases, infection may lead to revision surgery, but it is not an automatic indication.
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.
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