An older adult patient experiences a fracture of the lower leg and undergoes closed reduction and placement of a fiberglass cast. What should the nurse prepare for when planning care?
Permanent mobility impairment
A delay of healing
Malalignment of healed bones
The development of a bone infection
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Permanent mobility impairment is a possible complication, but it is not the most common concern immediately following a closed reduction and cast placement.
Choice B reason: Older adults are at a higher risk for delayed healing of fractures due to factors such as reduced bone density, slower cellular repair mechanisms, and potential comorbidities like diabetes or osteoporosis. While permanent mobility impairment, malalignment, and bone infections are possible complications of fractures, they are less common in routine cases of closed reduction and casting, especially if proper care and follow-up are provided. Delayed healing is a more likely complication due to age-related changes in bone health.
Choice C reason: Malalignment of healed bones is a potential long-term complication, but it is not the immediate concern post-cast placement.
Choice D reason: Bone infections (osteomyelitis) are rare following closed fractures treated with casting, especially when there is no open wound. Infections are more likely with open fractures or surgical interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Provision of home care is not part of the immediate postoperative phase described during preoperative teaching.
Choice B reason: The decision for surgery until transfer to surgery is part of the preoperative phase, not the postoperative phase.
Choice C reason: Admission to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) until recovery is the correct description of the postoperative phase, where the patient is monitored as they recover from anesthesia.
Choice D reason: Transfer to surgery until transfer to PACU describes the transition from preoperative to intraoperative phases, not the postoperative phase.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Notifying the registered nurse is important but should come after initially assessing the patient's immediate needs.
Choice B reason: Raising the head of the bed may help with breathing but does not address the cause of the patient's distress.
Choice C reason: Sitting with her and listening to her concerns is supportive but should follow an initial assessment of why she is sobbing and gasping for breath.
Choice D reason: Asking the patient what is wrong is the first step in assessing the situation and providing appropriate care.
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