What is the appropriate method of positioning the residual limb in the post-operative period for a patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation?
Keep the residual limb in a dependent position
Maintain the residual limb in a flexed position
Elevate the residual limb on a pillow
Keep the residual limb in a neutral, flat position
The Correct Answer is C
The appropriate method of positioning the residual limb in the post-operative period for a patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation is to elevate the residual limb on a pillow. Elevating the limb helps reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which can enhance healing and prevent complications.
a. Keep the residual limb in a dependent position: Keeping the residual limb in a dependent position (hanging down) can impede venous return and increase swelling. It is not the recommended position for post-operative care.
b. Maintain the residual limb in a flexed position: Keeping the residual limb in a flexed position may increase pressure on the surgical site and hinder proper wound healing. A flexed position is not the recommended post-operative positioning for the residual limb.
d. Keep the residual limb in a neutral, flat position: While keeping the residual limb in a neutral, flat position is generally recommended for some post-operative care, elevating the limb on a pillow is preferred in the immediate post-operative period for below-the-knee amputation to reduce swelling and promote healing.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Assessing the surgical incision for signs of infection is essential in the immediate post-operative period after amputation to detect any early signs of complications such as infection. Prompt identification and intervention can prevent further complications and promote healing.
a. Administering opioid pain medications regularly: While pain management is important after amputation, administering opioid pain medications regularly may lead to potential side effects and dependency. Pain medications should be given as needed and in response to the patient's pain level.
c. Encouraging the patient to perform active range of motion exercises: Active range of motion exercises may not be appropriate immediately after amputation due to wound healing and surgical site considerations. The focus in the immediate post-operative period is on wound care and monitoring.
d. Providing emotional support and counseling: Emotional support and counseling are essential for a patient who underwent amputation, but in the immediate post-operative period, the priority is on physical assessment and wound care.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Assessing the patient's psychological readiness for surgery is essential to prevent potential complications in a patient scheduled for amputation. Pre-operative anxiety, fear, or emotional distress can impact the patient's overall well-being and affect their post-operative recovery. Identifying and addressing these concerns before the surgery is crucial to promote a positive surgical experience and improve outcomes.
a. Performing active range of motion exercises on the affected limb: While range of motion exercises may be beneficial in certain cases, this intervention is not specific to preventing pre-operative complications. Pre-operative exercises may be recommended in some cases to improve overall limb function, but they are not directly related to preventing complications.
b. Administering post-operative pain medications: Administering post-operative pain medications is a consideration after the surgery, not a pre-operative intervention. Pain management strategies are planned and implemented to address pain after the amputation.
d. Educating the patient about post-operative care and rehabilitation: Patient education about post-operative care and rehabilitation is vital, but it is not a pre-operative intervention to prevent complications. This education takes place before and after the surgery to prepare the patient for the recovery process.
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