Which surgical technique involves the removal of a limb at the joint level?

Circulation assessment of the affected limb is essential for a patient scheduled for amputation. This assessment helps identify any vascular issues or compromised blood flow to the limb, which can impact wound healing and increase the risk of post-operative complications. It is crucial to assess circulation to ensure the patient's safety during and after the amputation procedure.

a. Blood pressure measurement: While blood pressure measurement is a routine assessment, it is not specific to amputation and not directly related to preventing pre-operative complications.
b. Assessment of respiratory rate: Respiratory rate assessment is important for general health assessment, but it is not directly related to preventing complications specifically related to amputation.
d. Height and weight measurement: Height and weight measurement are important for general health assessment, but they are not directly related to preventing complications specifically related to amputation.

Infection at the amputation site is a potential pre-operative complication that may occur before the actual surgery. The presence of infection at the surgical site can increase the risk of post-operative complications, delay the surgery, and affect wound healing. Proper pre-operative assessment and management of infections are crucial to ensure a successful amputation procedure.

b. Post-operative pain management: Post-operative pain management is a consideration after the surgery, not a pre-operative complication. It involves planning for pain relief strategies to provide comfort and promote healing after the amputation.
c. Surgical wound dehiscence: Surgical wound dehiscence refers to the separation or opening of the surgical wound, which can occur after the surgery, not before. Proper wound care and surgical techniques are essential to prevent wound dehiscence.
d. Prosthetic fitting and training: Prosthetic fitting and training are part of the post-operative care, not pre-operative complications. After the amputation, the patient will be evaluated for the appropriate prosthetic device, and training will be provided to adapt to using it effectively.