A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for balanced skeletal traction with a Thomas splint for the treatment of a fractured femur. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent pressure points from developing around the edges of the splint?
Remove the weights for a few minutes each hour.
Apply lotion to the skin under the edges of the splint.
Apply a foot plate to the bed.
Reposition the client to keep him from staying in the same position in bed.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Removing the weights periodically helps relieve pressure on the skin but dosen't prevent pressure points from developing.
B. Applying lotion may not effectively prevent pressure points and could potentially lead to skin irritation.
C. Applying a foot plate to the bed is not directly related to preventing pressure points around the edges of the splint.
D. Repositioning the client is important for overall comfort as well as preventing complications by altering pressure points.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Remove the elastic bandage and re-wrap the stump once per day: This is not recommended. The elastic bandage provides support and helps reduce swelling. It should only be removed and re-wrapped as directed by the healthcare provider.
B. Secure the elastic bandage to the lowest joint: The bandage should be secure, but it should not be tied too tightly or secured directly over a joint. This could restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.
C. Wrap the stump with an elastic bandage in a figure-eight configuration: This is the correct action. A figure-eight configuration helps distribute pressure evenly, providing support and reducing the risk of edema and complications.
D. Perform passive range-of-motion exercises once daily: Range-of-motion exercises are important, but they should be performed within the parameters set by the healthcare provider. They should not be performed only once daily, and it's essential to avoid overexertion or straining the residual limb.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inserting sterile packing into the nares is not indicated in this situation. Clear fluid drainage from the nose may be cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and packing could cause further complications.
B. Allowing the drainage to drip onto a sterile gauze pad is the appropriate initial action. Clear fluid drainage from the nose after a traumatic event may be CSF, which can indicate a skull fracture and damage to the meninges. Collecting the fluid on a sterile gauze pad can help confirm the presence of CSF.
C. Suctioning the nose with a bulb syringe is not recommended because it can introduce contaminants into the nasal passages and potentially worsen the injury.
D. Obtaining a culture of the specimen using sterile swabs is a consideration once the presence of CSF is confirmed. However, the initial priority is to identify and collect the clear fluid drainage.
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.