A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has an external fixation device in place to treat an open fracture of the tibia and fibula. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
Apply 4.5 kg (10 lb) traction weight to the distal end of the fixator.
Monitor the neurovascular status of the client's affected limb every 8 hr.
Administer pain medication 30 min prior to pin care.
Adjust the clamps on the device's frame daily.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale: Applying traction weight to the external fixator is not recommended, as it can cause excessive stress on the pins and wires, leading to complications such as infection, loosening, or breakage1. Traction is usually applied to skeletal pins that are inserted into the bone without an external frame2.
Choice B rationale: Monitoring the neurovascular status of the affected limb is important, but every 8 hours is not frequent enough. The nurse should perform neurovascular checks every 2 to 4 hours for the first 24 hours, then every 4 to 8 hours, according to the facility policy3. This is to assess for signs of nerve damage, compartment syndrome, or impaired circulation, which can result from the injury or the device.
Choice C rationale: Administering pain medication 30 min prior to pin care is a correct intervention, as it can help reduce the discomfort and anxiety associated with the procedure. Pin care involves cleaning the pin sites with an antiseptic solution and applying sterile dressings to prevent infection and promote healing. The frequency and technique of pin care may vary depending on the type of device, the condition of the wound, and the facility protocol.
Choice D rationale: Adjusting the clamps on the device’s frame daily is not a nursing intervention, as it can alter the alignment and stability of the fracture. The clamps should be tightened only by the orthopedic surgeon or a trained technician, and only when necessary. The nurse should inspect the device for any loose or broken parts and report any problems to the surgeon.
So, the correct answer is Choice C, after analysing all choices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Clients with a left-sided stroke will have neurological deficits on the right side of the body, including paralysis or weakness. Impaired speech, language, and cognition are also possible. Blood pressure, temperature, and laboratory results may be affected by the stroke, but they are not specific to a left-sided stroke.
Option A, "Blood pressure," is incorrect because it may be affected by the stroke, but it is not specific to a left-sided stroke.
Option B, "Temperature," is incorrect because it may be affected by the stroke, but it is not specific to a left-sided stroke.
Option D, "Laboratory results," is incorrect because they may be affected by the stroke, but they are not specific to a left-sided stroke.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cross-react with sulfa and should be avoided in clients with a sulfa allergy. Atorvastatin, prednisone, and digoxin do not contain sulfa and are safe for clients with a sulfa allergy.
Choice B: Atorvastatin does not contain sulfa and is safe for clients with a sulfa allergy.
Choice C: Prednisone does not contain sulfa and is safe for clients with a sulfa allergy.
Choice D: Digoxin does not contain sulfa and is safe for clients with a sulfa allergy.
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