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 D
Explanation
A. Instructing the client on the use of crutches is important but not the most crucial immediately postoperatively. Ensuring the client's neurovascular status is stable takes priority.
B. Directing the client to perform ankle and toe exercises is important for preventing complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and maintaining joint mobility. However, it is not the most critical action in the immediate postoperative period.
C. Medicating the client for pain is essential for comfort and recovery, but it should be based on a pain assessment and should not take precedence over assessing neurovascular status.
D. Performing neurovascular checks of the extremities is the most crucial action in the postoperative period after orthopedic surgery. It helps to ensure there is adequate blood flow and nerve function to the affected limb, which is essential for preventing complications such as compartment syndrome or vascular compromise.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Drying time is typically shorter with a synthetic cast compared to a plaster cast. Synthetic casts are designed to set faster, reducing the time the patient needs to remain immobilized during casting.
B. A synthetic cast is generally lighter in weight than a plaster cast. This can be more comfortable for the patient and may reduce the risk of muscle atrophy or discomfort associated with the cast's weight.
C. A plaster cast does not necessarily require expensive equipment for application, and both plaster and synthetic casts can be applied using relatively simple and cost-effective methods.
D. The effectiveness of immobilization is not significantly different between plaster and synthetic casts. Both types of casts can provide adequate immobilization for bone fractures, and the choice between them may depend on factors like patient preference, the type of fracture, and other clinical considerations.
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