A client has come to the orthopedic clinic for a follow-up appointment 6 weeks after fracturing his ankle. Diagnostic imaging reveals that bone union is not taking place. What factor most likely contributed to this complication?
Inadequate immobilization
Venous thromboembolism
Inadequate vitamin D intake
Bleeding at the injury site
The Correct Answer is A
A. Inadequate immobilization: Proper immobilization is essential for fractured bones to heal correctly. Immobilization, often achieved through casts, splints, or other orthopedic devices, stabilizes the broken bone fragments, allowing them to fuse back together. If the immobilization is not sufficient or if the patient doesn't follow the prescribed immobilization protocol, there can be excessive movement at the fracture site, hindering the healing process.
B. Venous thromboembolism: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to the formation of blood clots in veins, usually in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) that can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). While VTE is a potential complication after a fracture, it is not a direct cause of delayed bone union.
C. Inadequate vitamin D intake: Vitamin D is essential for bone health as it helps the body absorb calcium, which is crucial for bone formation and maintenance. Inadequate vitamin D levels can weaken bones and impair the healing process, but it's not a common cause of delayed bone union unless there are severe deficiencies or underlying medical conditions.
D. Bleeding at the injury site: Bleeding at the injury site occurs immediately after the fracture and is a natural part of the body's response to injury. While excessive bleeding can lead to complications, it is not a likely cause of delayed bone union six weeks after the injury. In the early stages of healing, bleeding is replaced by the formation of a hematoma, which eventually transforms into a callus and aids in the bone healing process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Provide the client with antipyretic therapy. - Antipyretic therapy can help reduce fever, but addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics is crucial.
B. Administer antibiotics to the client. -The priority intervention for a client with acute osteomyelitis is to administer antibiotics promptly. Osteomyelitis is a severe bacterial infection of the bone, which requires aggressive antibiotic therapy to eradicate the infection. Delaying antibiotic treatment can lead to further complications and the spread of the infection.
C. Teach relaxation breathing to reduce the client's pain. - Pain management is important, but in the case of acute osteomyelitis, the priority is to eliminate the infection through antibiotics.
D. Increase the client's protein intake. - Adequate nutrition, including protein, is important for overall healing and immune function, but it is not the priority when dealing with an acute infection that requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will reduce my intake of vitamin K-rich foods."
Vitamin K is essential for bone health as it helps in the regulation of calcium within bones and blood vessels. Therefore, reducing the intake of vitamin K-rich foods would not be beneficial for preventing osteoporosis. In fact, adequate intake of vitamin K is important for bone health.
B. "I will limit my intake of soft drinks." - Soft drinks, especially cola beverages, contain phosphoric acid, which can leach calcium from bones, making them weaker and more susceptible to fractures.
C. "I will reduce my intake of sodium." - High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium excretion in the urine, potentially weakening bones over time. Reducing sodium intake can help in preventing bone loss.
D. "I will decrease my intake of caffeine." - Excessive caffeine consumption can interfere with calcium absorption, contributing to bone loss. Decreasing caffeine intake is advisable for maintaining bone health.
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