Which nursing action(s) should the nurse include in the post-op plan of care for a client recovering from a below-the-knee amputation?
Administering pain medication as needed.
Encouraging the client to bear weight on the affected limb immediately after surgery.
Restricting the client's mobility and keeping the client on bed rest.
Applying a tight compression bandage on the residual limb.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Post-operative pain management is a critical aspect of care for a client recovering from a below-the-knee amputation. Administering pain medication as needed helps to manage pain effectively, which is essential for the client's comfort and recovery. Pain control is also important to facilitate participation in rehabilitation activities.
Choice B reason:
It is not advisable to encourage the client to bear weight on the affected limb immediately after surgery. The residual limb needs time to heal, and premature weight-bearing can lead to complications such as delayed healing or wound dehiscence.
Choice C reason:
While it is important to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis, complete restriction of mobility and keeping the client on bed rest is not recommended. Early mobilization, as part of a rehabilitation program, is essential for improving circulation, preventing muscle atrophy, and promoting overall recovery.
Choice D reason:
Applying a tight compression bandage on the residual limb is a common practice in the post-operative care of clients with amputations. The compression bandage helps to control swelling, shape the limb for a prosthesis, and prevent fluid accumulation. However, the bandage must be applied correctly to avoid impairing circulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Isoniazid, an antitubercular medication, can cause peripheral neuropathy, a form of nerve damage characterized by numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet. This side effect is due to the drug's interference with the normal metabolism of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). Supplementation with vitamin B6 is recommended to prevent this complication. The normal daily recommended intake for vitamin B6 in adults ranges from 1.3 to 1.7 mg.
Choice B reason:
While it is true that isoniazid can cause discoloration of bodily fluids, turning urine and tears orange, this is not a harmful side effect and does not require intervention. It is, however, important to inform the client of this possibility to prevent alarm.
Choice C reason:
There is no evidence to suggest that routine hearing exams are necessary for clients taking isoniazid unless they have pre-existing hearing conditions or are taking other medications known to affect hearing. Therefore, this is not a standard part of the teaching plan for clients on isoniazid.
Choice D reason:
Photosensitivity reactions are not commonly associated with isoniazid use. While wearing sunscreen is generally good advice for skin protection, it is not specifically related to the administration of isoniazid and thus would not be the primary information to include in the teaching plan.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Limiting ambulation is not typically recommended as part of the management for pneumonia. While rest is important, some movement is beneficial for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis. Ambulation should be encouraged as tolerated to promote circulation and prevent stasis of secretions.
Choice B reason:
Administering pain medication every two hours may not be necessary and could lead to overmedication. Pain management should be based on the client's reported pain levels and response to medication, with adjustments made as needed for effective relief.
Choice C reason:
Encouraging the client to hold their chest with a pillow or hands, known as splinting, can help reduce the pain experienced during coughing by providing support and stabilizing the chest wall. This technique is a non-pharmacological intervention that can effectively manage pain associated with coughing in pneumonia patients.
Choice D reason:
Teaching pursed-lip breathing and deep breathing techniques is beneficial for clients with respiratory conditions, including pneumonia. These techniques can help improve ventilation and oxygenation, but they are not specifically aimed at managing pain during coughing. However, they can be included as part of the overall respiratory care plan.
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