What should the nurse assess for in a patient with an open fracture?
Joint range of motion
Neurological function in the unaffected limb
Signs of infection at the fracture site
Quality of pain experienced by the patient
The Correct Answer is C
In a patient with an open fracture (compound fracture), there is a risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone to the external environment. The nurse should assess for signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, and increased pain at the fracture site.
a. Assessing joint range of motion is important, but it is not the priority in a patient with an open fracture, where preventing infection is the main concern.
b. Assessing neurological function in the unaffected limb is not directly related to the open fracture and may not be the priority at this time.
d. Assessing the quality of pain experienced by the patient is important for pain management but is not the priority over assessing for signs of infection in an open fracture.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should instruct the patient to avoid placing any objects under the cast to prevent skin irritation, damage to the cast, and potential introduction of bacteria or contaminants.
a. Encouraging the patient to frequently remove the cast for skin care is not recommended, as it can compromise the cast's fit and function and increase the risk of complications.
b. Advising the patient to use a hairdryer on the cast to relieve itching is not recommended, as it can cause skin maceration and damage the cast.
d. Educating the patient to keep the cast exposed to air for prolonged periods is not recommended, as dirt and debris can get trapped inside the cast, increasing the risk of infection. The patient should follow the healthcare provider's instructions for cast care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The type of fracture is essential in assessing the patient's readiness for weight-bearing. Some fractures require non-weight-bearing, partial weight-bearing, or full weight-bearing, depending on the bone's location, severity of the fracture, and treatment plan.
a. Age of the patient: The patient's age can influence fracture healing but is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status.
c. Pain level: Pain assessment is important for managing discomfort, but it is not the sole factor in determining weight-bearing status.
d. Patient's occupation: The patient's occupation may be considered in the treatment plan, but it is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status after a fracture.
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