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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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A non-healing surgical wound is a significant complication of amputation that may require revision surgery. Revision surgery involves re-intervention on the surgical site to address wound healing issues and promote better outcomes.
a. Phantom limb sensation: Phantom limb sensation is a common experience after amputation but does not typically require revision surgery. It is a neurological phenomenon related to the brain's perception of the missing limb.
b. Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers: Skin breakdown and pressure ulcers can occur around the residual limb due to pressure and friction from the prosthetic device. While they require attention and management, they may not always necessitate revision surgery.
c. Infection at the surgical site: Infection at the surgical site is a serious complication, but it is typically managed with appropriate antimicrobial therapy and wound care. In some cases, infection may lead to revision surgery, but it is not an automatic indication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Inspecting the skin under the prosthetic device daily is essential to prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. Continuous pressure and friction from the prosthetic device can cause skin irritation and breakdown, and early detection allows for timely intervention and prevention of complications.
a. Applying a topical antibiotic to the residual limb daily: Applying a topical antibiotic daily is not recommended unless specifically prescribed by the healthcare provider for a wound or infection. Routine use of topical antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.
b. Massaging the residual limb with lotion to improve circulation: Massaging the residual limb with lotion may be beneficial for comfort, but it is not a preventive measure for skin breakdown. Excessive massage can cause skin irritation.
d. Wearing a compression bandage over the prosthetic device: While compression bandages may be used as part of post-operative care, wearing a compression bandage over the prosthetic device is not a standard preventive measure for skin breakdown.
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