A nurse working on a surgical unit is developing a care plan for a client who has paraplegia. The client has an area of nonblanchable erythema over his ischium. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the care plan?
Place the client upright on a donut-shaped cushion.
Turn and reposition the client every 15 minutes while sitting.
Apply a moisture-barrier cream to the affected area.
Turn and reposition the client every 3 hours while in bed.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Donut-shaped cushions are contraindicated because they create a ring of high pressure that restricts blood flow to the central area. This can worsen tissue ischemia and accelerate skin breakdown.
Choice B rationale: Clients with paraplegia sitting in a chair should be repositioned every 15 minutes to relieve pressure. Frequent shifts are necessary because sitting exerts higher pressure on the ischial tuberosities than lying down.
Choice C rationale: Moisture-barrier creams are used to protect skin from incontinence or wound drainage. Nonblanchable erythema indicates a stage 1 pressure injury, which requires pressure relief rather than a topical moisture barrier.
Choice D rationale: While in bed, the standard of care is to turn and reposition the client at least every 2 hours. A 3-hour interval is too long and increases the risk of further tissue damage.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Encouraging ambulation only after 48 hours delays recovery, as early ambulation (within 12-24 hours) promotes circulation, prevents thromboembolism, and aids bowel function post-abdominal surgery. This instruction is incorrect, as it contradicts evidence-based protocols for early mobilization to enhance recovery.
Choice B reason: Instructing clients to avoid coughing is inappropriate, as coughing and deep breathing prevent pulmonary complications like atelectasis post-abdominal surgery. Splinting the incision during coughing reduces discomfort and dehiscence risk, making this instruction incorrect as it increases respiratory complications.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever or redness, is critical post-abdominal surgery to detect complications early. Infections can delay healing and lead to sepsis. Regular assessment ensures timely intervention, aligning with evidence-based postoperative care, making this the correct information to include.
Choice D reason: Removing surgical dressings within 12 hours is not standard, as dressings typically remain for 24-48 hours or per surgeon orders to protect the wound and reduce infection risk. Premature removal increases contamination risk, making this instruction incorrect for postoperative care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Removing a thermometer for use on another client risks cross-contamination, as C. difficile spores are highly transmissible. Dedicated equipment is required to prevent spread, so this action is incorrect and violates infection control protocols.
Choice B reason: Wearing a gown during care prevents C. difficile spore transmission via contact, a key precaution for this infection. This aligns with CDC contact isolation guidelines, protecting staff and other patients, making it the correct action.
Choice C reason: Washing hands with alcohol-based cleaner is ineffective against C. difficile spores, which require soap and water to physically remove them. This action is incorrect and inadequate for infection control in this scenario.
Choice D reason: Wearing an N95 respirator is unnecessary, as C. difficile is not airborne. Contact precautions (gown, gloves) suffice, so this action is incorrect and overprotective, wasting resources without addressing the transmission mode.
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