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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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 B
Explanation
Transmetatarsal amputation involves the surgical removal of the forefoot and toes while preserving the heel and ankle joint. It is commonly used for below-the-knee amputations, specifically for conditions that affect the toes and forefoot but spare the ankle joint.
a. Hip disarticulation: Hip disarticulation is a higher-level amputation that involves the removal of the entire lower limb at the hip joint. It is not commonly used for below-the-knee amputations.
c. Above-the-knee amputation: Above-the-knee amputation involves the removal of the entire lower limb above the knee joint. It is not used for below-the-knee amputations.
d. Syme amputation: Syme amputation involves the removal of the foot at the ankle joint while preserving the heel pad. It is used for specific conditions affecting the foot and ankle joint but is not a common choice for below-the-knee amputations.
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