A nurse working on an orthopedic unit is caring for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse identify as being at greatest risk for skin breakdown?
An adolescent who has a cervical fracture and is in a halo brace
A middle adult who has a fractured radius and an arm cast
An older adult who has a hip fracture and is in Buck's traction
A young adult who has a femur fracture and is in skeletal balanced suspension traction
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Although the adolescent in a halo brace has some immobility, the greatest risk factors for skin breakdown involve areas where prolonged pressure is applied, and older adults are more vulnerable due to age-related skin changes.
B. A fractured radius and arm cast do not pose a significant risk for skin breakdown because the client can still mobilize and reposition themselves, reducing prolonged pressure.
C. An older adult with a hip fracture in Buck's traction is at greatest risk for skin breakdown due to immobility, pressure from the traction setup, and the reduced skin elasticity and healing capacity that come with age.
D. While skeletal balanced suspension traction poses some risk, a young adult typically has better skin integrity and mobility than an older adult, reducing the risk for skin breakdown.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Clients receiving continuous bladder irrigation after a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) often feel a constant urge to void due to the presence of the catheter and the irrigation fluid in the bladder. The nurse should reassure the client that this sensation is expected.
B. Weighing the client is not necessary for immediate postoperative care following TURP. Fluid balance is managed by monitoring urine output rather than daily weight.
C. Urine output should be monitored more frequently than every 6 hours in the immediate postoperative period, especially with continuous bladder irrigation, to ensure there are no blockages or complications.
D. Fluid restriction is not recommended after TURP. In fact, encouraging oral fluid intake helps maintain hydration and prevents blood clots in the bladder irrigation system.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Placing the client supine with knees bent helps reduce abdominal pressure, but it is not the first action. Protecting the exposed organs from infection or drying out takes priority.
B. Assessing for manifestations of shock is important, but the immediate concern is to prevent further injury or infection to the exposed tissues.
C. The priority action when a wound eviscerates is to cover the area with a sterile dressing moistened with 0.9% sodium chloride solution to keep the organs moist and prevent infection until surgical repair can be done.
D. Raising the head of the bed slightly may help reduce pressure, but it is not the most immediate action compared to covering the exposed organs to prevent drying or infection.