A nurse is preparing a client for an electroencephalogram (EEG). When the client asks what the purpose of the procedure is, what is the nurse's best response?

A. Have the client lay prone for 30 minutes. 3-4 times a day:
This statement is correct. Lying prone (on the stomach) for 30 minutes several times a day helps to prevent hip flexion contractures, which are common complications after an above-the-knee amputation. By lying prone, the residual limb is stretched and the hip joint is kept in an extended position, which helps maintain proper alignment and reduces the risk of contractures. This is a key part of postoperative care to promote optimal positioning and rehabilitation.

B. Continue using the limb prosthesis even if the skin appears irritated:
This statement is incorrect. If the skin becomes irritated or damaged, the prosthesis should not be used until the skin has healed. Continued use of the prosthesis in the presence of skin irritation can cause further damage, leading to ulcers or infections. It is essential to regularly check the residual limb for irritation, redness, or sores and adjust the prosthesis as needed. If irritation is present, the prosthesis should be removed, and appropriate skin care should be provided.

C. Withhold medication for phantom limb pain as it isn't real pain:
This statement is incorrect. Phantom limb pain is real and a common experience for individuals after an amputation. It occurs when the brain perceives pain sensations in the area where the limb used to be, even though the limb is no longer there. Phantom limb pain is often treated with pain medications, including analgesics, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants, and should not be withheld. Proper management of phantom limb pain is important for the client's comfort and overall well-being.

D. Keep the residual limb elevated to achieve as close to 90-degree hip flexion as possible:
This statement is incorrect. While it is important to elevate the residual limb after surgery to reduce swelling, it should not be elevated to the point where the hip joint is flexed to 90 degrees. Elevating the limb too much or for prolonged periods can increase the risk of developing a hip flexion contracture, which would impair mobility. The residual limb should be elevated slightly, but the hip joint should not be excessively flexed. Ideally, the limb should be positioned in a neutral or extended position when elevated.

A) Explaining the purpose, risks, benefit, and alternatives of the surgery: This is not the responsibility of the RN. The role of explaining the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the surgery falls under the responsibility of the surgeon or the healthcare provider performing the procedure. The RN can provide general information and support but is not responsible for explaining the details of the surgery or obtaining informed consent.

B) Witnessing the client’s signature on the consent form: This is within the RN’s scope of practice. The nurse's role in the consent process is to witness the client's signature, ensuring that it is voluntary and that the client appears to be competent and informed. The nurse does not explain the details of the procedure, but they confirm that the patient has been informed by the surgeon.

C) Conducting a baseline physical assessment and obtaining vital signs: This is an important responsibility of the RN. The nurse conducts a thorough pre-operative assessment, which includes gathering baseline physical data and vital signs. This helps establish a reference point for the client’s health status before surgery and allows for the identification of any abnormalities that may need to be addressed.

D) Ensuring the pre-operative checklist is completed: This is also the RN's responsibility. The nurse ensures that all aspects of the pre-operative checklist, which includes verifying consent, ensuring necessary tests are done, and confirming that the patient is prepared for surgery, are completed. This is part of the nurse’s role in preparing the patient for a safe surgical experience.