A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client.

Exhibits

A nurse in an outpatient orthopedic clinic is caring for the client six weeks following surgical repair of a fractured radius. Which of the following information provided by the client indicates improvement?

Select all that apply.

The correct answer is choice B. Wear clean cotton socks every day.

This is because cotton socks can help keep the feet dry and prevent infections. Wearing clean socks every day can also prevent blisters and injuries from friction.

Choice A is wrong because soaking feet twice daily can make the skin too soft and prone to injury. It can also wash away natural oils that protect the skin.

Choice C is wrong because rounding the edges of toenails when trimming can cause ingrown nails, which can lead to infection and pain. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and filed smooth.

Choice D is wrong because using moisturizing lotion between the toes can create a moist environment that promotes fungal growth. Moisturizing lotion should be applied to the rest of the feet, but not between the toes.

Some other foot care guidelines for people with diabetes are:

• Inspect your feet daily and look for signs of injury, such as scrapes, cuts, blisters, etc.
• Wash your feet every day in warm water with mild soap.

Hot water and harsh soaps can damage your skin. Check the water temperature with your fingers or elbow before putting your feet in.

• Don’t walk barefoot.

Protect your feet from heat and cold. Wear appropriate fitting shoes to avoid injury and blisters.

• See a doctor to remove corns or calluses (don’t do it yourself). Don’t use chemical wart removers, razor blades, corn plasters, or liquid corn or callus removers.
• Don’t sit with your legs crossed or stand in one position for long periods of time.
• See your doctor regularly for foot exams and report any problems or changes in your feet.

References:

Answer is… C and F indicate improvement.

A The client has gained 1.8 kg (4 lb). BMI is 18.9. This is not an improvement because the client’s BMI is still below the normal range of 18.5 to 24.9 The client may have malnutrition or other health problems that affect their weight.

B The clients adult child prepares two meals per day for the client. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still depends on others for their basic needs and may have difficulty with self-care.

C The clients clothing is clean and appropriate for the weather. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has good hygiene and can dress themselves appropriately.

D The client receives three baths per week from a home care aide. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still needs assistance with bathing and may have limited mobility or pain.

E The client reports frequent toothaches and lack of dental care. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client has poor oral health and may have infections or other complications.

F The client makes eye contact and smiles when speaking. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has positive mood and social interaction.

: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/distal-radius-fracture- wrist-fracture : https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm.