A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total left hip arthroplasty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Cross the client's legs when sitting in the recliner.
Provide a heating pad to the operative hip.
Place a pillow between the legs when turning the client to their side.
Have the client lean forward when assisting them out of the bed.
The Correct Answer is C
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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A three-prong plug attached to the electrical cord of the client's bed is not a safety hazard. It is a standard plug type used in many electrical devices and poses no immediate danger if properly installed.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting a protective cover into an unused outlet is actually a safety measure to prevent electrical accidents. It is not a hazard but a recommended practice.
Choice C rationale:
Plugging an IV pump into an outlet near a sink is a safety hazard. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and any spill or leakage around the outlet could lead to electrical shock or damage to the equipment.
Choice D rationale:
Coiling and securing an electrical cord to the floor can be a potential tripping hazard, but it is not as hazardous as having an electrical device near a sink. Tripping hazards can cause falls, while the combination of water and electricity is more likely to cause serious injuries.
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