A client with a fracture of the right femur has had skeletal traction applied. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's nursing plan of care?
Assess the pulses proximal to the fracture site.
Assess the pin sites for signs of infection.
Administer pain medication at designated intervals around the clock.
Remove traction every shift and provide skin care.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Assessing the pulses proximal to the fracture site is crucial for evaluating blood circulation to the affected limb and detecting potential complications such as compartment syndrome.
B. While monitoring pin sites for signs of infection is important, the priority is ensuring adequate circulation.
C. Administering pain medication is essential for comfort but does not address potential complications from skeletal traction.
D. Removing traction every shift is not advisable as it can compromise the alignment and healing of the fracture.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A nursing care plan in the medical record before assessing the patient so that the nurse can identify priorities. The nurse should assess the patient first to determine their needs and priorities rather than create a care plan without assessment.
B. At least three times during the shift: at the beginning, in the middle, at the end, and as needed. Regular documentation is good practice, but the initial assessment must be documented at the beginning of the shift to establish a baseline.
C. An initial assessment of the patient and a plan based on the needs of the patient as assessed at the beginning of the shift. Documenting an initial assessment is crucial for identifying immediate needs and planning care, especially after surgery.
D. At the end of the shift so that the nurse can give full attention to the patient's needs during the shift. Waiting until the end of the shift risks missing critical changes and does not provide a clear baseline assessment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encouraging physical activity, such as walking, is important for cardiovascular health, but it is not a measurable outcome related to the client's current condition of blurred vision and cardiovascular disease.
B. While educating the family about signs and symptoms is valuable, it does not directly address the client's health status or outcomes that can be measured.
C. A target blood pressure of less than 160/90 mm Hg does not adequately control hypertension and may still pose a risk to cardiovascular health, especially given the blurred vision, which could indicate possible complications.
D. Setting a goal for the client’s daily blood pressure to be less than 140/80 mm Hg is a clear, measurable outcome that indicates effective management of hypertension and promotes overall cardiovascular health. This target is aligned with current clinical guidelines for hypertension management.