The nurse is caring for a patient who had a below-the-elbow amputation. Which activity should the nurse encourage the patient to perform during the post-operative period to promote muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb?
Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb
Performing active range of motion exercises
Keeping the residual limb immobile
Applying cold packs to the residual limb
The Correct Answer is B
Encouraging the patient to perform active range of motion exercises is important to promote muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb after a below-the-elbow amputation. Active exercises engage the muscles and joints, preventing stiffness and maintaining function.
a. Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb: Lifting heavy weights with the residual limb may be contraindicated, especially in the immediate post-operative period, as it can strain the healing tissues and lead to injury.
c. Keeping the residual limb immobile: Keeping the residual limb immobile can lead to stiffness, weakness, and contractures. Active range of motion exercises are essential to maintain mobility and function.
d. Applying cold packs to the residual limb: Cold packs may be used for pain relief or to reduce swelling in the immediate post-operative period, but they are not specifically aimed at promoting muscle strength and flexibility in the residual limb. Active exercises are more appropriate for this purpose.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hip disarticulation involves the removal of the entire lower limb at the hip joint. This surgical technique is indicated for severe disease or trauma affecting the entire lower limb, where preservation of the knee joint is not feasible or beneficial.
b. Knee disarticulation: Knee disarticulation involves the removal of the lower limb at the knee joint. It is a different level of amputation compared to hip disarticulation.
c. Transfemoral amputation: Transfemoral amputation is the removal of the lower limb above the knee joint, preserving the femur. It is a different level of amputation compared to hip disarticulation.
d. Transtibial amputation: Transtibial amputation involves the removal of the lower limb below the knee joint, preserving the tibia. It is a different level of amputation compared to hip disarticulation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
During an amputation procedure, the bone stump is typically left intact to provide a stable base for prosthetic fitting. The muscles, nerves, and tendons are carefully dissected and secured to prevent complications and facilitate healing.
a. Muscles: While muscles are involved in the surgical procedure, they are typically resected to the appropriate level to accommodate the prosthetic device.
b. Nerves: Nerves are carefully dissected and secured during the amputation procedure to prevent neuromas and phantom limb pain but are not left intact for prosthetic fitting.
c. Tendons: Tendons are typically resected during the amputation procedure, and their positioning and attachment are crucial for proper wound closure and healing, but they are not left intact for prosthetic fitting.
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