A client with a compound fracture of the left ankle is being discharged with a below-the-knee cast. Which
instruction should the practical nurse (PN) provide to the client prior to discharge?
Apply a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast.
Keep the left leg in a dependent position.
Expect some increase in pain.
Never scratch under the cast.
The Correct Answer is D
When providing instructions to a client with a below-the-knee cast for a compound fracture of the left ankle, it is important to prioritize their safety and proper care of the cast. The instruction to never scratch under the cast is crucial for preventing complications and maintaining the integrity of the cast.
Let's evaluate the other options:
a) Apply a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast.
Applying a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast may help alleviate discomfort or itching, but it is not the highest priority instruction. Preventing scratching under the cast is more important to avoid skin damage or infection.
b) Keep the left leg in a dependent position.
Keeping the left leg in a dependent position (hanging down) is not the appropriate instruction for a client with a below-the-knee cast. It is generally recommended to elevate the injured limb to reduce swelling and promote proper blood flow. Elevating the leg would involve keeping it raised above the level of the heart.
c) Expect some increase in pain.
While it is possible for the client to experience some increase in pain after the application of a cast, this instruction alone is not comprehensive or specific enough for proper discharge education. Providing information about pain management strategies or when to seek medical atention for excessive pain would be more appropriate.
In summary, when discharging a client with a compound fracture of the left ankle and a below-the-knee cast, the practical nurse (PN) should provide the instruction to never scratch under the cast. This helps prevent complications and maintain the integrity of the cast, promoting proper healing of the fracture.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering corticosteroids is not an action that the nurse implements to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance because it is a medication that reduces inflammation and relieves acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, but does not affect the client's physical function or mobility.
Choice B reason: Turning and repositioning every 2 hours is not an action that the nurse implements to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance because it is a nursing intervention that prevents pressure ulcers and promotes skin integrity, but does not enhance the client's circulation or muscle activity.
Choice C reason: Administering interferon is not an action that the nurse implements to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance because it is a medication that modifies the immune system and delays the progression of multiple sclerosis, but does not improve the client's physical function or mobility.
Choice D reason: Encouraging range-of-motion exercises is an action that the nurse implements to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance because it is a physical activity that improves the client's blood flow, flexibility, and muscle tone, as well as prevents contractures and spasticity.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: "I may experience urinary incontinencE." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching because it is truE. Urinary incontinence is a common symptom of MS due to nerve damage affecting the bladder control.
Choice B reason: "I should not exercise because this may trigger an exacerbation." This statement indicates the need for additional teaching because it is falsE. Exercise is beneficial for people with MS as it can improve strength, balance, mobility, fatigue, mood, and quality of lifE. Exercise does not cause or worsen MS relapses.
Choice C reason: "I should alternate the eye patch every other day to help with the double vision." This statement indicates the need for additional teaching because it is not recommendeD. Eye patching is not an effective treatment for double vision caused by MS, as it can impair depth perception, increase eye fatigue, and delay recovery. Eye patching should only be used temporarily and under medical supervision.
Choice D reason: "I may experience visual disturbances." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching because it is truE. Visual disturbances are common in MS due to inflammation or damage of the optic nerve or other parts of the visual pathway. Visual disturbances can include blurred vision, reduced color vision, pain in the eye, and loss of vision.
Choice E reason: "I need to check the water temperature before I take a batH." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching because it is truE. People with MS may have impaired sensation and temperature regulation, which can increase the risk of burns or hypothermia when exposed to hot or cold water. Checking the water temperature before bathing can prevent injury and discomfort.
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