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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
knee-chest. During sigmoidoscopy, the client should lie on their left side with their right knee flexed slightly. The nurse should then position the client in the knee-chest (Sims) position, where the client leans forward with bent knees and support the chest and forearms on the table or a pillow. This allows better visualization and access to the rectal area for the sigmoidoscopy procedure.
An explanation for incorrect choices:
A. Orthopneic position is upright sitting with arms and elbows resting on a table or on a pillow, which helps clients who have difficulty breathing; it is not suitable for sigmoidoscopy.
B. Trendelenburg position
is supine with the head lower than the feet, which can cause blood flow to the head and increased intracranial pressure; it is not suitable for sigmoidoscopy.
C. Prone position is lying face down, which is not suitable for sigmoidoscopy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, participate in reminiscence therapy with the client. This is an effective intervention for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It involves encouraging the client to discuss past experiences and events. It has been shown to improve mood, decrease agitation, and increase communication skills. The reminiscence therapy should be individualized and tailored to the client's interests and abilities.
- Raising the four side rails on the client's bed is not the correct answer because this could cause harm to the client by restricting their mobility and independence.
- Alternating the client's daily routine is not the correct answer because individuals with Alzheimer's disease benefit from a consistent routine, which helps them to feel more secure and less anxious.
- Keeping the lights dimmed is not the correct answer because it can be disorienting and confusing for clients with Alzheimer's disease, who need adequate lighting to distinguish their surroundings.
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