The nurse is providing instructions about how to treat a sprained ankle. What statement by the mother does the nurse recognize as indicative of a need for additional teaching?
"Put an ice pack on the ankle, alternating 20 minutes on with 20 minutes off."
"Wrap the ankle in an Ace bandage for support."
"Keep the leg elevated when sitting"
"Apply warm compresses to the ankle for the first 24 hours."
The Correct Answer is D
D. Warm compresses or heat therapy are not recommended for the initial management of a sprained ankle, especially within the first 24 hours. Heat can increase blood flow and exacerbate swelling and inflammation, which may worsen pain and delay healing.
A. Applying ice packs in this manner helps reduce inflammation and swelling, which are common after a sprain. Alternating ice application with periods of rest allows for effective cooling without causing tissue damage.
B. Wrapping the ankle in an Ace bandage can provide compression and support, which may help reduce swelling and stabilize the joint during the healing process. However, it's important not to wrap the bandage too tightly, as this can impair circulation.
C. Elevating the leg when sitting helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and preventing fluid accumulation in the injured area. Keeping the ankle elevated above the level of the heart whenever possible is recommended for optimal swelling reduction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (passive smoking) is a known risk factor for otitis media, as it can irritate the upper respiratory tract and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, including those affecting the ears.
B. Excessive earwax buildup can sometimes contribute to ear discomfort or hearing problems but it is not a common cause of persistent otitis media. However, it's still important for the nurse to assess for any earwax issues as part of the overall assessment of the child's ear health.
C. Drinking water is generally beneficial for overall health but is not directly linked to otitis media unless there are specific concerns about hydration status or exposure to contaminated water sources.
D. Water entering the ears during bathing is not generally considered a significant risk factor for otitis media, but it can be associated with otitis externa, which is an infection of the outer ear canal.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. This is characteristic of Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign is elicited when the thigh is flexed at the hip and then attempts to extend the leg at the knee are met with resistance or pain due to inflammation of the meninges.
A. Petechial and purpuric rashes are associated with meningococcal meningitis, not specifically with Kernig's sign. These rashes result from bleeding into the skin and are a characteristic feature of meningococcal sepsis. However, they are not directly related to Kernig's sign.
B. This observation describes Brudzinski's sign, not Kernig's sign. Brudzinski's sign occurs when passive flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the hips and knees due to meningeal irritation.
D. Muscle and joint pain can be symptoms of meningitis, but they are not specific to Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign specifically refers to resistance or pain experienced when attempting to extend the leg at the knee.
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