Which nursing intervention is essential for preventing complications in the immediate post-operative period after amputation?

The primary goal of positioning the residual limb in the post-operative period after amputation is to promote venous return and reduce swelling. Elevating the limb helps improve blood flow and reduce edema, which can enhance healing and prevent complications.

b. To improve the patient's comfort and relaxation: While positioning may improve the patient's comfort, the primary goal is related to physiological considerations such as venous return and swelling reduction.
c. To encourage early ambulation and mobility: Early ambulation and mobility are important components of post-operative care, but the primary goal of positioning is not directly related to encouraging ambulation.
d. To protect the surgical incision from contamination: Positioning the residual limb is not primarily intended to protect the surgical incision from contamination. Dressings and wound care techniques are used for this purpose.

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.