Before discharge a patient who has Lightcast applied to immobilize a fracture of the forearm should be taught that

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) when bathing or showering the Lightcast should be kept dry by covering it securely with a plastic bag. This answer is correct because it emphasizes the importance of keeping the Lightcast dry to prevent damage or disintegration. Option A is incorrect because using a hair dryer to dry the Lightcast may not be safe and can lead to overheating or damage to the Lightcast. Option C is incorrect because even occasional moisture exposure can weaken the Lightcast over time. Option D is incorrect because it provides inaccurate information about the hardening time of the Lightcast. In an educational context, it is crucial for patients to understand proper care instructions for medical devices like Lightcast to ensure optimal healing and recovery. Teaching patients how to protect their Lightcast from moisture can prevent complications and promote successful treatment outcomes. Patients should be empowered with accurate information to actively participate in their care and recovery process.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Soft diet with frequent meals. Mr. Sands likely needs this diet for symptomatic relief due to potential neurological issues affecting his ability to swallow or chew properly. A soft diet is easier to chew and swallow, reducing the risk of aspiration or choking. Frequent meals help maintain a steady intake of nutrients without overwhelming the digestive system. Option A) Clear liquid diet is too restrictive and lacks the necessary nutrients for long-term health. Option C) Regular diet may be too challenging for Mr. Sands to consume based on his neurological condition. Option D) High-residue diet, which is high in fiber, may be difficult for Mr. Sands to digest and could exacerbate any gastrointestinal issues he may have. From an educational perspective, understanding the rationale behind dietary choices for patients with neurological issues is crucial for healthcare providers. It highlights the importance of tailoring diets to individual needs based on their condition and symptoms to optimize their nutritional intake and overall well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the case of osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone, proper healing is crucial to prevent complications. Immobilization of the affected area (Option B) is necessary to promote healing by reducing movement at the site of infection. Immobilization helps to limit further damage, decrease pain, and support the affected bone during the healing process. This allows the body's immune system to better target and eliminate the infection, leading to improved outcomes. Debridement and drainage of the area (Option A) may be necessary in some cases to remove infected tissue and pus; however, immobilization is essential for structural support and preventing further spread of the infection. Ice packs alternating with moist heat applied externally (Option C) are not typically used for osteomyelitis. While these modalities can help with pain and inflammation in some conditions, they are not the primary interventions for osteomyelitis. Internal fixation device inserted (Option D) is not typically indicated in the initial management of osteomyelitis. This option involves surgical placement of hardware to stabilize fractures but is not directly related to the treatment of osteomyelitis. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate interventions for osteomyelitis is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for patients with this condition. Proper management can help prevent complications, promote healing, and improve patient outcomes. Immobilization plays a key role in the treatment plan and should be implemented in conjunction with other appropriate therapies to address osteomyelitis effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D) Keeping the swollen body part above the level of the heart. This intervention, known as elevation, helps to reduce edema by facilitating venous return and decreasing hydrostatic pressure in the affected area. By elevating the swollen body part, gravity assists in the drainage of excess fluid, promoting circulation and reducing swelling. This is a fundamental nursing intervention for managing edema in clients with tissue injury. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: A) Massaging the swollen body part: Massaging can potentially worsen the edema by further increasing blood flow to the area, leading to more swelling and pain. It is contraindicated in cases of acute edema. B) Taking a prescribed analgesic: While pain management is important for client comfort, it does not directly address the underlying cause of edema. Analgesics do not have a direct effect on reducing swelling. C) Applying a cold pack to the swollen body part: Cold packs are useful for acute injuries to reduce inflammation and pain. However, in the case of edema resulting from tissue injury, applying cold may not be as effective as elevation in promoting fluid drainage and reducing swelling. Educational Context: Understanding the appropriate interventions for managing edema is crucial for nurses, especially when caring for clients with tissue injury or circulatory problems. Elevation is a simple yet effective technique that can significantly improve edema and promote healing. Nurses should be knowledgeable about when to use elevation and how it can benefit clients with edema. This question highlights the importance of evidence-based nursing interventions in promoting optimal client outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a client with compartment syndrome in the upper arm, the nurse should closely monitor for Volkmann's contracture. Volkmann's contracture is a serious complication of untreated or inadequately treated compartment syndrome, where there is ischemia and necrosis of the muscles in the forearm leading to a flexion contracture of the hand and fingers. Option A) Epicondylitis is inflammation of the tendons that attach to the epicondyles of the humerus, commonly seen in tennis players. It is not directly related to compartment syndrome in the upper arm. Option B) Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition involving compression of the median nerve at the wrist. It typically presents with symptoms in the hand and fingers, not in the upper arm where compartment syndrome occurs. Option D) Ganglion cyst is a noncancerous lump that most commonly develops along the tendons or joints of wrists or hands. It is not a symptom associated with compartment syndrome in the upper arm. Educationally, understanding the complications of compartment syndrome like Volkmann's contracture is crucial for nurses to provide prompt intervention and prevent long-term disabilities. Monitoring for specific symptoms allows for early detection and appropriate management, emphasizing the importance of thorough neurovascular assessments in patients at risk for compartment syndrome.