A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured hip and was placed in skeletal traction 2 hours ago. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Provide pin care when the client is 4 hours postoperative.
Remove the weights from the traction while repositioning the client in bed.
Assess the client's circulation every 4 hours.
Request the client to perform ankle exercises on the affected extremity.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Providing pin care when the client is 4 hours postoperative is not appropriate. The client has just undergone skeletal traction placement, and pin care is usually initiated after 24 hours to allow for initial wound healing.
Choice B rationale:
Removing the weights from the traction while repositioning the client in bed is unsafe and not recommended. The weights should remain in place to provide continuous traction and alignment for the fractured hip.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the client's circulation every 4 hours is essential to monitor for any signs of impaired circulation, such as swelling, pallor, or decreased pulses. Early detection of circulatory compromise is critical to prevent complications like compartment syndrome.
Choice D rationale:
Requesting the client to perform ankle exercises on the affected extremity is not appropriate after skeletal traction placement. Ankle exercises could disrupt traction and hinder the healing process of the fractured hip.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering furosemide may be appropriate for managing ascites, but it is not directly related to preventing complications. Furosemide is a diuretic that helps reduce fluid retention but does not address other potential complications of liver cirrhosis.
Choice B rationale:
Weighing the client weekly is essential to monitor changes in body weight and fluid status, which is crucial in detecting worsening ascites or fluid retention. Sudden weight gain could indicate an exacerbation of ascites or other complications, warranting timely intervention.
Choice C rationale:
Offering the client a high-sodium diet is contraindicated in managing ascites. A high-sodium diet would lead to increased fluid retention and worsen the ascites, potentially exacerbating the client's condition and increasing the risk of complications.
Choice D rationale:
Administering heparin is not relevant to preventing complications in a client with liver cirrhosis and abdominal ascites. Heparin is an anticoagulant, and its use is not indicated for this particular condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should not cross the client's legs when sitting in the recliner following a total left hip arthroplasty. Crossing the legs can put strain on the operative hip and may increase the risk of dislocation or other complications.
Choice B rationale:
Providing a heating pad to the operative hip is not recommended. Heat can increase blood flow to the area and may lead to increased swelling and potential complications in the postoperative period.
Choice C rationale:
Placing a pillow between the legs when turning the client to their side is the correct action. This technique is known as the "abduction pillow”. or "wedge pillow.”. It helps maintain proper hip alignment and prevents the operated leg from crossing the midline, reducing the risk of dislocation and promoting healing.
Choice D rationale:
Having the client lean forward when assisting them out of the bed is not appropriate after a total left hip arthroplasty. Leaning forward can put strain on the hip joint and increase the risk of injury.
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