Which pre-operative intervention is essential to prevent potential complications in a patient scheduled for amputation?

Encouraging the patient to perform active range of motion exercises is important to promote muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb after a below-the-elbow amputation. Active exercises engage the muscles and joints, preventing stiffness and maintaining function.

a. Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb: Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb may be contraindicated, especially in the immediate post-operative period, as it can strain the healing tissues and lead to injury.
c. Keeping the residual limb immobile: Keeping the residual limb immobile can lead to stiffness, weakness, and contractures. Active range of motion exercises are essential to maintain mobility and function.
d. Applying cold packs to the residual limb: Cold packs may be used for pain relief or to reduce swelling in the immediate post-operative period, but they are not specifically aimed at promoting muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb. Active exercises are more appropriate 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.