A patient with a right lower leg fracture will be discharged home with an external fixation device in place. Which information will the nurse teach?
"Assess the skin under the foam boot twice daily"
"Take prophylactic antibiotics before any dental work for the rest of your life”
"Check and clean the pin insertion sites daily."
"Remove the external fixator for your shower
The Correct Answer is C
Pin site care is essential to prevent infections and other complications associated with external fixation devices. The nurse should instruct the patient to clean the pin insertion sites daily with a sterile saline solution or as per healthcare provider's instructions. The patient should also observe for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage, and report any concerns to the healthcare provider.
Assessing the skin under the foam boot twice daily is not specific to external fixation devices, and it may not be relevant to this patient's care plan. The nurse should focus on teaching the patient about external fixation device care specifically.
Taking prophylactic antibiotics before any dental work for the rest of your life is not relevant to external fixation devices or right lower leg fractures. It is a recommendation for patients with certain heart conditions who may be at risk of developing infective endocarditis during dental procedures.
Removing the external fixator for the shower is not recommended as the device should be kept dry to prevent infections. The nurse should instruct the patient to cover the device with a waterproof dressing or plastic bag during showering to protect it from getting wet.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Toddlers often experience separation anxiety when separated from their primary caregivers. Having the parents stay with the child in the hospital, commonly known as rooming in, can provide a sense of security and familiarity, which helps alleviate separation anxiety. It allows the child to have a consistent presence and promotes a nurturing and comforting environment.
While explaining procedures and routines can be helpful, it may not fully address the underlying separation anxiety experienced by the toddler. Providing for privacy and encouraging contact with children the same age may not directly address the primary source of anxiety, which is being separated from the parents.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Compartment syndrome is a condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to impaired blood flow and potential tissue damage. It can occur when swelling or bleeding within a confined space, such as a cast, causes increased pressure on the surrounding tissues.
Tingling in the toes and decreased sensation can be indicative of nerve compression or damage due to increased pressure in the compartment. It is important to recognize these neurological changes as potential signs of compartment syndrome.
Signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome may include:
- Severe pain that is out of proportion to the injury or not relieved by pain medication.
- Swelling and tightness in the affected area.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Pale or cool skin over the affected area.
- Weakness or decreased sensation in the affected limb.
- In severe cases, paralysis or loss of pulse in the affected area.
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