Which nursing intervention is essential to prevent skin breakdown in a patient with a lower extremity amputation who is using a prosthetic device?

Increased swelling and bruising of the residual limb after a below-the-knee amputation may indicate a possible complication such as hematoma formation or poor wound healing. It requires further assessment and intervention by the healthcare team.

b. Mild tenderness and discomfort at the surgical site: Mild tenderness and discomfort are common after surgery and may be expected in the post-operative period. As long as the pain is manageable and not worsening, it is not necessarily an indication of a significant complication.
c. Gradual decrease in phantom limb pain over time: Phantom limb pain may gradually decrease over time as the nerve endings adapt to the amputation, and the brain's perception of the missing limb changes. This finding is a normal part of the post-amputation process and is not typically a complication.
d. Resumption of normal daily activities with a prosthetic limb: Resuming normal daily activities with a prosthetic limb is a positive outcome and a sign of successful rehabilitation and adaptation to the prosthesis. It is not indicative of a complication.

The priority nursing intervention to prevent hip flexion contractures after an above-the-knee amputation is performing passive range of motion exercises to the hip joint. Contractures are abnormal shortening and tightening of muscles and tendons, leading to restricted joint movement. Passive range of motion exercises help maintain joint flexibility and prevent contractures.

b. Elevating the residual limb on a pillow: Elevating the residual limb on a pillow is more applicable for preventing swelling and edema, not specifically for preventing hip flexion contractures.
c. Administering analgesics as prescribed: While pain management is essential for the patient's comfort, it is not directly related to preventing hip flexion contractures.
d. Providing emotional support and counseling: Emotional support and counseling are important aspects of care but are not directly related to preventing hip flexion contractures.