A nurse is caring for a client who had a total right hip arthroplasty. In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client to prevent complications?
Prone with the legs adducted
Side-lying on the affected side
Supine with the head slightly elevated
High-Fowler's with a pillow under the knees
The Correct Answer is C
A. Prone with the legs adducted: Prone positioning is not recommended after hip arthroplasty as it places pressure on the surgical site and does not support proper hip alignment. Adduction of the legs increases the risk of hip dislocation.
B. Side-lying on the affected side: Lying on the operative side can cause pain and increase pressure on the hip joint, which may compromise healing. It is generally recommended to avoid side-lying positions unless specifically advised by the provider.
C. Supine with the head slightly elevated: Keeping the client in a supine position with the head elevated and the legs abducted helps maintain proper hip alignment and reduces the risk of dislocation. A wedge or abduction pillow is often used to prevent the legs from crossing.
D. High-Fowler's with a pillow under the knees: A high-Fowler's position increases hip flexion beyond the recommended 90-degree limit, which can lead to dislocation. Placing a pillow under the knees can also increase the risk of venous stasis and deep vein thrombosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Discontinue opioids before trying nonpharmacological methods of pain relief: Nonpharmacological interventions can be used alongside opioids to enhance pain relief. Abruptly discontinuing opioids can lead to withdrawal symptoms and inadequate pain control.
B. Pain relief from the use of heat and cold continues for several hours after removal of the stimulus: While heat and cold therapy can provide temporary relief, their effects typically last for a short duration, usually around 15 to 30 minutes after removal.
C. Use imagery with clients who have difficulty with focus and concentration: Guided imagery requires cognitive focus and the ability to concentrate. Clients with impaired attention may struggle to benefit from this technique.
D. Distraction changes the client's perception of pain, but it does not affect the cause: Distraction techniques, such as music or conversation, help shift the client's attention away from pain, altering perception but not addressing the underlying pathology.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","H"]
Explanation
- Hematocrit: The client's hematocrit level of 24% is significantly low (normal range: 37% to 47%), indicating anemia. This requires follow-up to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment, such as iron supplementation or further investigation.
- Oxygen saturation: An oxygen saturation level of 94% is slightly low, especially considering the client's reported shortness of breath. Monitoring is necessary to ensure adequate oxygenation and to assess if supplemental oxygen or further respiratory evaluation is needed.
- Activity level: The client reports generalized weakness and increased fatigue, particularly becoming short of breath after minimal exertion (e.g., climbing stairs). This decreased activity level is concerning and may indicate cardiovascular or hematological issues, requiring further assessment and follow-up.
- Blood pressure: The blood pressure readings indicate orthostatic hypotension, with a drop from 118/60 mm Hg sitting to 102/50 mm Hg standing. This significant drop suggests potential volume depletion or anemia, which requires follow-up to assess fluid status and ensure safety during ambulation.
- Vitamin B12 level: The Vitamin B12 level of 159 pg/mL is slightly below the normal range (160 to 950 pg/mL), indicating potential deficiency. This can lead to anemia and neurological issues. Follow-up is needed to evaluate dietary intake and consider supplementation.
- Temperature: The client's temperature of 37° C (98.6° F) is within normal limits and does not indicate a need for follow-up. Monitoring for signs of infection or inflammation is important, but this finding is stable.
- Breath sounds: The assessment shows clear and present bilateral breath sounds, which indicate no respiratory distress or abnormalities. This finding does not require follow-up.
- Pain level: The client reports no pain or discomfort, which is a positive finding and does not necessitate further follow-up. Ongoing assessment for pain should continue, but current findings are stable.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.