A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hours postoperative following the application of an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Wrap sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins.
Adjust the clamps on the fixator frame.
Maintain the affected extremity in a dependent position.
Palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.

This is to assess for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction, which is a potential complication of a tibial fracture.
Choice A, wrapping sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice B, adjusting the clamps on the fixator frame, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Choice C, maintaining the affected extremity in a dependent position, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with an external fixator for a tibial fracture.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should apply new gloves when alternating between wound care sites.

This is to prevent cross-contamination and infection.
Choice A, cleaning the equipment in the client’s room once per week, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Choice B, providing a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables for the client, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Choice C, limiting visitation time for the client’s children to 40 min per day, is not an answer because it is not mentioned in the search results as an intervention for a client with full-thickness burns on the lower extremities.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Thrombocytopenia, or low platelet count, is a contraindication to receiving heparin.
Rheumatoid arthritis is not a contraindication to receiving heparin.
Thalassemia is not a contraindication to receiving heparin.
COPD is not a contraindication to receiving heparin.
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