A client has had an above-the-knee amputation and complains of pain distal to the amputation.

What type of pain is the client experiencing?

The best intervention by the nurse to prevent further skin and tissue breakdown on a reddened area on a client’s right heel is to relieve pressure from the right heel1.

Heels are particularly vulnerable to skin breakdown and when patients lie supine, all of the pressure of their lower legs and feet rest on the heels1.

Preventing heel ulcers primarily involves the use of simple devices, like pillows and offloading devices, to protect delicate heels1.

Choice A is not correct because documenting the reddened area alone will not prevent further skin and tissue breakdown.

Choice B is not correct because asking the client how the area became reddened alone will not prevent further skin and tissue breakdown.

Choice C is not correct because assessing the client’s diet alone will not prevent further skin and tissue breakdown.

“Do you know how to change your dressing?” This statement can create a barrier to communication because it may make the patient feel judged or defensive if they do not know how to change their dressing.

It is better to phrase the question in a more open-ended and non-judgmental way, such as “Can you tell me about your experience with changing your dressing?”

Choice B is not an answer because it encourages the patient to share information about their hospitalization and promotes open communication.

Choice C is not an answer because it shows that the speaker is actively listening and engaging with the patient’s previous statements.

Choice D is not an answer because it encourages the patient to share information about their pain management and promotes open communication.