A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. The nurse is preparing to change the client's surgical dressing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to demonstrate sensitivity to age-related changes?
Ask the client to help with the dressing change
Wait for the client to approach the nurse for assistance
Use paper tape for securing the new dressing
Apply the dressing loosely over the incision
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Asking the client to assist with a surgical dressing change following a total hip arthroplasty may be inappropriate due to the client's postoperative physical limitations and hip precautions. While fostering independence is generally positive, it does not specifically address the physiological age-related changes of the integumentary system. The primary concern in this scenario is protecting the integrity of the client's fragile skin during adhesive removal.
B. Waiting for a client to request assistance for a scheduled postoperative dressing change is a deviation from the standard plan of care and proactive nursing management. Postoperative wound care is a scheduled clinical priority to monitor for infection and promote healing. This action does not demonstrate sensitivity to age-related physiological changes and could potentially lead to delayed detection of surgical site complications or wound dehiscence.
C. Using paper tape is the most appropriate action because older adults possess a thinner stratum corneum and diminished cohesion between the dermis and epidermis. Traditional plastic or silk adhesives can cause epidermal stripping and skin tears upon removal due to their high tackiness. Paper tape provides sufficient securement for the surgical dressing while minimizing the risk of mechanical injury to the sensitive, translucent skin of an elderly patient.
D. Applying a dressing loosely over a fresh surgical incision is contraindicated as it fails to provide an adequate microbial barrier and does not support wound healing. A loose dressing may shift, causing friction against the incision line or allowing contaminants to reach the surgical site. To demonstrate age-related sensitivity, the nurse must ensure the dressing is secure while using materials that are gentle on the surrounding atrophic skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer: B. You can take a shower 1 day after your procedure.
Rationale:
A. You can resume a regular diet 3 days after your procedure:
There is typically no need to delay resuming a regular diet for three days after a cardiac catheterization. Most clients can resume their usual diet shortly after the procedure once they are fully awake and any nausea has resolved.
B. You can take a shower 1 day after your procedure:
It is generally safe to shower the day after a cardiac catheterization as long as the insertion site remains protected. Clients should avoid soaking in a bath or swimming until the site is fully healed to prevent infection.
C. You can begin exercising 2 days after your procedure:
Strenuous activities, including exercise, should generally be avoided for a few days to a week following a cardiac catheterization. This allows time for the insertion site to heal and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding.
D. You can return to school 1 week after your procedure:
Most clients can return to school or normal activities within a few days, provided they feel well and avoid excessive physical exertion. A full week off is typically not necessary unless specified by the healthcare provider based on the individual’s recovery.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Graham crackers are a good snack option for toddlers. They are easy to eat and can be paired with other healthy foods such as fruit or nut buter.
The other options are not correct because:
a) Marshmallows are not recommended as a healthy snack for toddlers.
c) Almonds are not recommended for toddlers due to their choking hazard .
d) Carrot sticks can be a healthy snack option for toddlers, but they should be cut into thin strips to reduce the risk of choking .
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