A client with a new right leg cast is complaining of increasing pain in that injured extremity. The nurse has administered analgesics and elevated the limb. Thirty minutes after administering the analgesics, the client states the pain is unrelieved. The nurse should recognize the warning signs of what complication?

Choice A reason: Transferring from sitting to standing position is not a high-risk activity for hip dislocation, as long as the client follows the proper precautions, such as keeping the operated leg slightly forward, using a chair with armrests, and avoiding twisting or pivoting the hip.

Choice B reason: Straining during a bowel movement is not a direct risk factor for hip dislocation, but it may cause constipation, which is a common problem after surgery. The nurse should educate the client on the importance of adequate hydration, fiber intake, and stool softeners to prevent constipation and reduce the need for straining.

Choice C reason: Bending down to put socks on is a risky activity for hip dislocation, as it violates the hip precautions of avoiding flexing the hip more than 90 degrees, adducting the hip, or internally rotating the hip. The nurse should instruct the client to use assistive devices, such as a sock aid or a long-handled reacher, to put on socks or shoes without bending the hip.

Choice D reason: Turning in bed with an abductor pillow in place is a safe activity for hip dislocation, as the abductor pillow helps to maintain the alignment and stability of the hip joint. The nurse should teach the client to use the abductor pillow while in bed for the first few weeks after surgery, and to turn from side to side with the assistance of a caregiver.

Choice E reason: Crossing the legs or ankles is a dangerous activity for hip dislocation, as it causes the hip to move out of its normal position. The nurse should remind the client to keep the legs apart at all times, and to use a pillow or a wedge between the legs when lying on the side.

Choice A reason: Reporting any pain that is uncontrolled by elevating the affected limb or by analgesic agents is an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may indicate a serious complication such as compartment syndrome, infection, or nerve damage. The nurse should instruct the client to notify the health care provider immediately if the pain persists or worsens.

Choice B reason: Using intermittent heat packs as prescribed to control swelling is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may increase the blood flow and inflammation in the affected area. The nurse should advise the client to avoid heat sources such as heating pads, hot water bottles, or electric blankets, as they may also damage the cast or cause burns.

Choice C reason: Using a small hair brush to control any itching under the cast is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may cause skin irritation, infection, or damage to the cast. The nurse should suggest the client to use a cool air dryer, a gentle tapping, or an antihistamine to relieve the itching, and to avoid inserting any objects under the cast.

Choice D reason: Keeping the affected extremity below the level of the heart to prevent swelling is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it may impair the venous return and increase the edema. The nurse should recommend the client to elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart to reduce the swelling and promote the healing.

Choice E reason: Inspecting the cast daily for cracks, breaks, or signs of infection is not an appropriate teaching point for the nurse to emphasize, as it is not a specific or relevant instruction for the client with a cast on his leg. The nurse should teach the client to keep the cast dry and clean, to cover it with a plastic bag when showering or bathing, and to report any foul odor, drainage, or fever.