A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is 72 hr postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation. Which of the following actions should the nurse recommend?
Elevate the residual limb on a soft pillow.
Assist the client to a prone position every 4 hr.
Reapply a bandage to the residual limb every 12 hr.
Apply dressings to the site in a proximal-to-distal direction.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is an incorrect action, because elevating the residual limb on a soft pillow can cause contractures and impair the blood flow to the stump. The residual limb should be elevated only for the first 24 hr after surgery, and then positioned flat on the bed.
Choice B reason: This is the correct action, because assisting the client to a prone position every 4 hr can prevent hip flexion contractures and promote the range of motion of the hip joint. The client should lie prone for 20 to 30 minutes at a time, with the residual limb extended.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect action, because reapplying a bandage to the residual limb every 12 hr can increase the risk of infection and delay the healing of the wound. The bandage should be changed only when it is soiled or loose, and under sterile technique.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect action, because applying dressings to the site in a proximal-to-distal direction can cause edema and impair the circulation to
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because a report of a severe headache can be caused by many factors, such as concussion, migraine, or tension. A headache alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Choice B reason: This is a specific finding, because clear fluid coming from the nares can indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which is a sign of a basilar skull fracture. CSF is the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord, and can leak through the nose or ears if the skull is fractured.
Choice C reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because a brief change in level of consciousness can be caused by many factors, such as hypoxia, hypoglycemia, or seizure. A change in level of consciousness alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Choice D reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because bleeding from the top of the scalp can be caused by many factors, such as laceration, abrasion, or contusion. Bleeding from the scalp alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the best action, because compression stockings can help improve the blood flow and prevent the formation of new clots in the veins of the legs. Compression stockings can also reduce the swelling, pain, and inflammation caused by thrombophlebitis.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect action, because cold compresses can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the blood flow and the clotting process in the affected vein. Cold compresses can also increase the discomfort and numbness of the extremity.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect and dangerous action, because gently massaging the area can dislodge the clot and cause it to travel to the lungs, heart, or brain, resulting in a life-threatening complication, such as pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, or stroke.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect and misleading statement, because heparin is not prescribed to dissolve the thrombus, but to prevent the growth and extension of the existing clot and the formation of new clots. Heparin is an anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting factors in the blood, but does not break down the clot. The body's own enzymes, such as plasmin, are responsible for dissolving the clot.
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