A nurse is completing discharge teaching with a client following arthroscopic knee surgery. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Remain on bedrest for the first 24 hr.
Apply ice to the affected area.
Begin active range of motion.
Keep the leg in a dependent position.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Remain on bedrest for the first 24 hr.: This is not recommended after arthroscopic knee surgery. Early mobilization and ambulation are encouraged to prevent complications such as blood clots and promote healing.
B. Apply ice to the affected area: This is an important instruction. Applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain after surgery. It's typically recommended for the first 24-48 hours.
C. Begin active range of motion: While range of motion exercises are important, they should be initiated as directed by the healthcare provider, and they should be done gently to avoid straining the surgical site.
D. Keep the leg in a dependent position: This is not recommended. Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and promote circulation. Keeping the leg in a dependent position could exacerbate swelling and discomfort.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Mild erythema (redness) at the pin sites can be a normal finding due to the body's response to the presence of foreign objects. It may not necessarily indicate infection.
B. Serosanguineous drainage (a mixture of clear and bloody fluid) can also be a normal finding initially after the insertion of pins. It may not necessarily indicate infection.
C. Fever is a systemic response to infection. In a client with skeletal traction, fever can be an indication of an infection at the pin sites or a more systemic infection related to the traction device.
D. Warmth around the pin sites can be a normal finding due to the inflammatory response that occurs after pin insertion. It may not necessarily indicate infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Positioning the client in a high-Fowler's position if clear drainage is noted on the dressing is not a specific intervention for a laminectomy with spinal fusion. The nurse should follow the surgeon's specific postoperative orders regarding positioning and wound care.
B. Monitoring sensory perception of the lower extremities is a crucial nursing intervention after a laminectomy with spinal fusion. This is to assess for any signs of neurovascular compromise or nerve damage.
C. Assisting the client into the knee-chest position to manage postoperative discomfort is not a recommended position after a laminectomy with spinal fusion. The nurse should follow the surgeon's specific postoperative orders regarding positioning.
D. Maintaining strict bed rest for the first 48 hours postoperative is not typically indicated after a laminectomy with spinal fusion. Early mobilization and ambulation are often encouraged to prevent complications and promote recovery. The nurse should follow the surgeon's specific postoperative orders regarding activity and mobility.
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