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 C
Explanation
A. Manage bladder irrigation following the procedure. - Bladder irrigation is not typically performed after ESWL. It may be used in other urological procedures, but it is not a standard post-procedural care for ESWL.
B. Administer a bolus of 750 mL normal saline following the procedure. - While maintaining hydration is important, there is no specific requirement for a bolus of normal saline after ESWL. Hydration is usually encouraged, but the amount and method of administration are determined based on the client's overall fluid status and medical condition.
C. Strain the client's urine following the procedure.
After extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), it is essential to strain the client's urine to collect any stone fragments. Straining allows healthcare providers to analyze the composition of the stones, ensuring that all fragments have been passed. This information helps in assessing the effectiveness of the procedure and guides further management.
D. Insert a urinary catheter for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. - Inserting a urinary catheter is not a routine post-procedural measure after ESWL. Catheterization might be necessary in certain situations or for specific medical reasons, but it is not a standard practice after ESWL for all clients.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Avoiding the use of ice packs to treat muscle pain - While ice packs can cause skin damage in older adults with thinning skin, it is not the most appropriate response to the question. Protecting against shearing injuries is a more direct and specific concern related to thinning skin.
B. Protecting older adults against excessive sweat accumulation - Excessive sweat accumulation can lead to skin irritation, but this option does not directly address the issue of thinning skin as the primary concern in the question.
C. By protecting older adults against shearing injuries
Thinning skin in older adults makes them more vulnerable to skin injuries, especially shearing injuries. Shearing occurs when the skin is pulled in one direction while the underlying bone and tissues are pulled in the opposite direction. This can lead to skin tears and other wounds, which can be painful and slow to heal in older adults. Nurses should take special precautions to prevent shearing injuries, such as using lift sheets or sliding devices when moving patients, and ensuring that patients are repositioned frequently to reduce friction and shearing forces.
D. Avoiding the use of lotion on older adults' skin - Proper moisturization of the skin is important, especially in older adults, to prevent dryness and skin breakdown. Avoiding lotion is not a recommended practice; instead, choosing appropriate, non-irritating lotions can help maintain skin integrity.
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