Which of the following statements by the patient is correct regarding postoperative positioning after total hip arthroplasty?
“I can bend my hip beyond 90 degrees as long as I feel comfortable."
“I should avoid turning onto my operative side to prevent hip dislocation."
“I don't need to use a pillow or abduction device between my legs when turning."
“I should cross my legs when sitting to keep my hip stable."
The Correct Answer is B
A. “I can bend my hip beyond 90 degrees as long as I feel comfortable." Flexing the hip beyond 90 degrees increases the risk of hip dislocation.
B. “I should avoid turning onto my operative side to prevent hip dislocation." Lying on the operative side increases pressure on the hip joint and can lead to dislocation or delayed healing.
C. “I don't need to use a pillow or abduction device between my legs when turning." An abduction pillow or device is necessary to keep the legs apart and prevent hip adduction, which can lead to dislocation.
D. “I should cross my legs when sitting to keep my hip stable." Crossing the legs can cause internal rotation and hip dislocation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. “I will keep my cast dry and avoid inserting objects inside to scratch my skin.” Keeping the cast dry prevents it from softening or breaking down, which could lead to improper healing. Avoiding objects inside the cast prevents skin injuries and infections.
B. "If I notice increased swelling, numbness, or severe pain, I will elevate my leg and notify my provider immediately." Increased swelling, numbness, and severe pain can indicate compartment syndrome or impaired circulation. Elevating the leg and seeking medical attention is appropriate.
C. "It's okay to use a blow dryer on a cool setting to help dry my cast if it gets wet." A blow dryer on a cool setting can be used to help dry moisture inside the cast without causing burns or affecting the cast material.
D. “I should expect to feel extreme pain under the cast that doesn't improve with pain medication.” Extreme pain that is unrelieved by medication is abnormal and may indicate complications like compartment syndrome, infection, or pressure ulcers under the cast. The patient needs further education that severe pain should be reported immediately.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increased hip range of motion and absence of pain. A hip dislocation causes severe pain and reduced mobility, not increased range of motion. This option is incorrect.
B. Reports of hearing a "pop" at the time of pain onset. A "popping" sound often occurs when the prosthetic hip dislocates from the joint, making this a key symptom of hip dislocation.
C. Ability to bear weight on the affected leg without discomfort. A hip dislocation causes severe pain and functional impairment, making weight-bearing extremely difficult or impossible.
D. Symmetric leg length with normal alignment. A dislocated hip causes the affected leg to appear shortened and externally rotated, so symmetrical leg length would not be expected.
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