A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hr. postoperative following application of an external fixator for a tibial fracture. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Palpate the dorsalis pedis pulse.
Adjust the clamps on the fixator frame.
Wrap sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins.
Maintain the affected extremity in a dependent position
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Palpating the dorsalis pedis pulse is the appropriate option. Checking the dorsalis pedis pulse is crucial to assess the perfusion and circulation to the affected extremity. This is an important nursing action to monitor the patient's vascular status and ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the extremity distal to the fixator. A decrease or absence of the dorsalis pedis pulse could indicate potential circulation issues and require immediate attention.
Choice B reason:
Adjusting the clamps on the fixator frame is incorrect. The nurse should not adjust the clamps without specific orders from the healthcare provider. The external fixator is typically secured according to the surgeon's specifications, and any adjustments should be made under the guidance of the surgical team.
Choice C reason:
Wrapping sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins is incorrect. The sharp pins used in an external fixator are an integral part of the device and are placed to stabilize the fracture. They should not be covered with sterile gauze, as this could interfere with their function and increase the risk of infection.
Choice D reason:
Maintaining the affected extremity in a dependent position is incorrect. Keeping the affected extremity in a dependent position (lower than the heart) can increase swelling and impair circulation. After surgery and fixation, it's often recommended to elevate the extremity to reduce swelling and promote proper circulation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
B. Potassium level: The normal potassium range is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. The client's potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is at the upper end of the normal range. While it is within the normal range, it is important to monitor it closely since elevated potassium levels can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, this finding indicates a need for follow-up by the nurse.
D. Urinary output: Urinary output is an important indicator of renal function and fluid balance. If the urinary output is significantly decreased or too low, it could indicate issues with kidney function or inadequate fluid intake. Monitoring urinary output is essential to assess the client's hydration status and kidney function. Therefore, this finding indicates a need for follow-up by the nurse.
Incorrect answers:
A. Blood pressure: Blood pressure is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor blood pressure, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to blood pressure.
C. Respiratory rate: Respiratory rate is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor respiratory rate, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to respiratory rate.
E. Heart rate: Heart rate is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor heart rate, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to heart rate.
F. Temperature: Temperature is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor temperature, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to temperature.
G. Oxygen saturation: Oxygen saturation is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor oxygen saturation, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to oxygen saturation.
H. Skin assessment: Skin assessment is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to assess the skin, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to skin assessment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
WBC count 8,400/mm3 is not appropriate. This white blood cell count is within the normal range and is not a cause for concern.
Choice B reason:
Serosanguineous exudate noted on dressing change is not appropriate. Serosanguineous drainage is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing and is expected after surgery.
Choice C reason:
Reports pain of 4 on a scale from 0 to 10 when coughing is not appropriate. A pain level of 4 out of 10 with coughing is a common and expected finding following an appendectomy. It's important for the nurse to assess and manage pain, but this is not an urgent concern.
Choice D reason:
Haemoglobin 10 mg/dL is appropriate. Haemoglobin level of 10 mg/dL indicates a low level of haemoglobin, which might suggest anaemia or blood loss. Reporting this finding to the provider is important as it could indicate a need for further evaluation or intervention.
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