An emergency department client is diagnosed with a hip dislocation. The client's family is relieved that the client has not suffered a hip fracture, but the nurse explains that this is still considered to be a medical emergency. What is the rationale for the nurse's statement?
The longer the joint is displaced, the more difficult it is to get it back in place.
Avascular necrosis may develop at the site if it is not promptly resolved.
The client's pain will increase until the joint is realigned.
Dislocation can become permanent if the process of bone remodeling begins.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The longer the joint is displaced, the more difficult it is to get it back in place:
This statement is correct. Prompt reduction of a dislocated joint is important because the longer the joint remains out of place, the more difficult it becomes to realign it. Delayed reduction can lead to complications and makes the process more challenging for healthcare providers.
B. Avascular necrosis may develop at the site if it is not promptly resolved:
Avascular necrosis is a condition where bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. While it is a potential complication of hip dislocation, it is not the immediate rationale for considering hip dislocation a medical emergency. The urgency primarily lies in the difficulty of reducing the dislocation and preventing further complications.
C. The client's pain will increase until the joint is realigned:
This statement is partially correct. While it is true that dislocated joints are extremely painful, the urgency in reducing the dislocation is not solely based on pain management. It is essential to prevent complications, restore joint function, and minimize long-term damage to the affected area.
D. Dislocation can become permanent if the process of bone remodeling begins:
This statement is accurate. If a dislocated joint is not promptly reduced, the surrounding tissues may undergo changes, and the process of bone remodeling can begin. This can lead to the dislocation becoming more difficult or even impossible to reduce, resulting in a permanent dislocation. Early intervention is essential to prevent this outcome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increase sodium intake - This is not a preventive measure for osteoporosis. High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium excretion and weaken bones.
B. Drink a cup of coffee each morning - Caffeine consumption, especially in excess, can interfere with calcium absorption and increase calcium excretion. Limiting caffeine intake is recommended for bone health. Drinking coffee in moderation is acceptable but excessive consumption should be avoided.
C. Have a bone-density scan each year - While bone-density scans (DEXA scans) are useful for diagnosing osteoporosis or assessing bone health, they are not typically recommended for young adults with a family history of osteoporosis unless there are specific risk factors present. Yearly scans are unnecessary and not cost-effective for young adults without significant risk factors.
D. Engage in weight-bearing exercise regularly - Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, dancing, and resistance training, help to increase bone density and strength. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, is a recommended preventive measure against osteoporosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypovolemic shock: Hypovolemic shock occurs when there is a significant loss of blood or fluids in the body, leading to insufficient blood volume to maintain normal circulation. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, and cold, clammy skin. While hypovolemic shock is a concern in trauma patients, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not typical of hypovolemic shock.
B. Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism syndrome occurs when fat particles are released into the bloodstream, often after a long bone fracture or trauma. These fat particles can block small blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as respiratory distress, confusion, and petechial rash (small red or purple spots under the skin). While fat embolism syndrome is a concern in patients with long bone fractures, the symptoms described by the client are more suggestive of a pulmonary embolism.
C. Venous thromboembolism (VTE): VTE refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, while pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. Symptoms of PE can include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and cough, which may produce bloody or blood-streaked sputum. Given the client's symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain, VTE, specifically pulmonary embolism, is a significant concern.
D. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow and potential nerve damage. Symptoms can include severe pain, swelling, and numbness or tingling. While compartment syndrome is a complication of fractures, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not characteristic of compartment syndrome.
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