A nurse is teaching a client how to manage edema following knee replacement surgery. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Apply ice packs for 15 minutes every hour.
Elevate the affected leg above the heart level.
Consume nutrition-dense foods first.
Wear compression stockings during the day.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Applying ice packs for 15 minutes every hour is not an effective intervention for managing edema following knee replacement surgery because it can impair blood circulation and delay healing. Ice packs can also cause frostbite or nerve damage if applied for too long or too frequently. Ice packs should be used only for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery and with a cloth barrier between the skin and the ice.
Choice B reason: Elevating the affected leg above the heart level is an effective intervention for managing edema following knee replacement surgery because it can reduce swelling and pain by facilitating venous return and lymphatic drainage. Elevation can also prevent blood clots and infection by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to the wound site.
Choice C reason: Consuming nutrition-dense foods first is not a relevant intervention for managing edema following knee replacement surgery because it does not directly affect fluid balance or wound healing. Nutrition-dense foods are those that provide high amounts of nutrients per serving, such as eggs, cheese, nuts, beans, and meat. Nutrition-dense foods are important for overall health, but not specifically for edema management.
Choice D reason: Wearing compression stockings during the day is not a recommended intervention for managing edema following knee replacement surgery because it can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection. Compression stockings can also cause skin irritation, blisters, or ulcers if worn incorrectly or too tightly. Compression stockings should be avoided until the wound is fully healed and only used under medical supervision.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Limiting high-calorie supplements to between meals is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can reduce the appetite and intake of regular meals, which are more nutritious and balanced. High-calorie supplements should be used as an addition to, not a replacement for, regular meals.
Choice B reason: Avoiding overeating during 'good' days is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting, which can worsen anorexia and affect the tolerance of radiation therapy. Eating should be based on hunger and satiety cues, not on good or bad days.
Choice C reason: Consuming nutrition-dense foods first is a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can ensure adequate intake of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for healing and recovery. Nutrition-dense foods are those that provide high amounts of nutrients per serving, such as eggs, cheese, nuts, beans, and meat.
Choice D reason: Eating hot foods rather than cold foods is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can irritate the mouth and throat, which may be inflamed or sore due to radiation therapy. Cold foods are more soothing and refreshing for the mouth and throat, such as ice cream, yogurt, smoothies, and popsicles.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates nerve and muscle function, acid-base balance, and fluid balance. Potassium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Sodium 145 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 136 to 145 mEq/L. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure, blood volume, and fluid balance. Sodium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and fluid loss.
Choice C reason: Hematocrit 53% is a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is above the normal range, which is 38 to 50% for men and 34 to 46% for women. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Hematocrit level can increase due to dehydration, which causes hemoconcentration or increased blood viscosity.
Choice D reason: HbA1c 5% is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is less than 5.7%. HbA1c is the percentage of hemoglobin that is attached to glucose. HbA1c level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. HbA1c level can be affected by various factors, such as diabetes, anemia, and medication.
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