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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hemoptysis, which is the coughing up of blood, is not typically associated with a urinary tract infection (UTI). It is more commonly related to respiratory or pulmonary issues.
Choice B rationale:
Hematuria, the presence of blood in the urine, is a common finding in a UTI. Inflammation and infection in the urinary tract can lead to the presence of blood cells in the urine.
Choice C rationale:
Hyperglycemia, an elevated blood glucose level, is not directly related to a UTI. It may be seen in individuals with diabetes, but it is not a typical finding in a UTI.
Choice D rationale:
Hypocalcemia, a low level of calcium in the blood, is not a characteristic finding in a UTI. UTIs primarily affect the urinary system and do not directly involve calcium metabolism.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assessing the need for oral suction every 4 hours is essential in maintaining airway patency and preventing complications associated with excessive secretions. This is an appropriate action and does not require clarification.
Choice B rationale:
Checking the ventilator settings every 12 hours is necessary to ensure that the mechanical ventilation is providing adequate support for the client's respiratory needs. This prescription is appropriate and does not need clarification.
Choice C rationale:
Keeping the head of the client's bed elevated at 30° is important in preventing aspiration and ventilator-associated pneumonia. This position helps promote optimal lung expansion and improves oxygenation in ventilated clients.
Choice D rationale:
Performing oral hygiene using an alcohol-based oral rinse is not recommended for clients receiving mechanical ventilation. Alcohol-based products can be harmful if aspirated and may disrupt the normal oral flora, leading to complications. The nurse should use a non-alcohol-based oral rinse or foam swabs instead.
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