A patient arrives in the emergency department with a swollen ankle after a soccer injury. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?
Ask the patient to try bearing weight on the ankle
Elevate the ankle above heart level
Apply a warm moist pack to the ankle
Assess the ankle's passive range of motion (ROM)
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Asking the patient to try bearing weight on the injured ankle is not appropriate at this stage. Bearing weight can cause further injury or exacerbate the swelling and pain. The initial treatment should focus on reducing swelling and providing support.
Choice B reason: Elevating the ankle above heart level is appropriate because it helps to reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the affected area. Elevation is a standard first aid measure for managing acute injuries and swelling.
Choice C reason: Applying a warm moist pack to the ankle is not advisable immediately after an injury. In the acute phase, cold therapy (ice) is recommended to reduce swelling and pain. Warm therapy is more appropriate during the recovery phase, once swelling has subsided.
Choice D reason: Assessing the ankle's passive range of motion (ROM) may be necessary later, but not immediately upon arrival. The priority is to manage pain and swelling first. ROM assessments can be painful and might worsen the injury if conducted too soon.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Stage 2 pressure injuries involve partial-thickness loss of skin with exposed dermis. The wound bed is viable, pink or red, and moist, and may also present as an intact or ruptured serum-filled blister. Since the wound involves subcutaneous tissue, it exceeds the criteria for Stage 2.
Choice B reason: Stage 1 pressure injuries are characterized by non-blanchable erythema of intact skin. While the skin is still intact, it may appear red and not lighten when pressed. Given the description of a wound involving subcutaneous tissue, Stage 1 is not appropriate.
Choice C reason: Stage 3 pressure injuries involve full-thickness loss of skin, where adipose (fat) is visible in the ulcer and granulation tissue and epibole (rolled wound edges) are often present. Slough and/or eschar may be visible, but the depth of tissue damage varies by anatomical location. This aligns with the wound involving subcutaneous tissue.
Choice D reason: Stage 4 pressure injuries involve full-thickness skin and tissue loss with exposed or directly palpable fascia, muscle, tendon, ligament, cartilage, or bone. While the wound described involves subcutaneous tissue, there is no mention of deeper tissue involvement, excluding Stage 4 classification.
Correct Answer is ["B"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cleaning the stoma two times a week is not sufficient. Stoma care typically requires daily cleaning to prevent infection and ensure the area remains free from mucus buildup and irritation.
Choice B reason: Using a bedside humidifier is important for patients with a tracheostomy. The humidified air helps to keep the stoma and airway moist, preventing drying and crusting of secretions, which can obstruct the airway.
Choice C reason: Offering plenty of fluids to the patient helps to keep the mucus thin and easier to clear, which is crucial for maintaining a clear airway in patients with a tracheostomy.
Choice D reason: Keeping the stoma uncovered when the patient showers is incorrect. The stoma should be covered with a waterproof shield or dressing to prevent water from entering the airway, which can cause respiratory distress or infection.
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